The new social circles I’ve been able to tap into thanks to social media is unbelievable. Amazing people with so much to add to a conversation that I would never have met or connected with through mainstream channels. Yay Twitter. You may have heard of Tweetups, meetups, or clubs but what it really is, is an excuse to hang out and chat. Which is what I found myself doing one afternoon on the Nautical Nellies’ patio with some great ladies.
THE ORDER:
Not being incredibly hungry, the four of us: @YukariP, @AsmaaMethqal and local interior designer Danisha Drury, all ordered light meals. Myself? A sushi roll. About half way through
our meals, Danisha found a hair in her meal. Of course we all play that quick game: Is it mine? Nope. It’s new. This experience happens at every restaurant at one time or another but it’s how they handle the situation that demonstrates their customer service expertise.
THE SERVICE:
Very nautical, not so very nellie
Once our little hair friend was found, we immediately notified the waitress. I could tell she didn’t quite know how to react as any previous confidence we may have gotten from her was gone. She of course apologized and asked if there was anything more she could get Danisha, additionally adding that this, “didn’t happen very often.” (geez, I hope so. I have been back since and yes, indeed, hair-free). Understandably the hunger was gone so any new food wouldn’t be necessary. The waitress disappeared back inside.
I’ve been in restaurants where what happens next is…nothing. The waiter has apologized and we then get a bill where the food is taken off which is, I’m sorry, the MINIMUM step an eatery can take.
Here’s where Nautical Nellie’s did it right. The manager came by and also apologized. She bought a glass of wine for the affected customer and made sure we weren’t too traumatized. It was that additional touch that ensured we’d be back. The manager made sure to connect with her customers, showing she was aware of the issue and wanted to address it directly. A bad situation turned into a good opportunity to step up and engage.
THE CONCLUSION:
Going steady – This could be the beginning of something major. There was a moment there between us when I didn’t know which way it was going to go but your personality really shined through. I look forward to many more dates…but make sure you shave.
Service Rating System:
Friend Zone – I just don’t like you in “that way.”
Booty Call – If I don’t have anything else better going on, I’ll stop by.
2nd Date – I’ll give you a second chance.
Going steady – This could be the beginning of something major.
