Two odd experiences...

I have a question: In the past month or so I have eaten at two rather upscale, popular restaurants that always get rave reviews. On both occasions I had unsatisfactory experiences, which, to some degree, I was compensated by management. In light of that, I have been reluctant to report on the experience so not to sound like a negative person. Which I am not - I am the one in both instances that talked other diners into trying something new. I had heard such wonderful things about both places, I was excited to finally get an opportunity to try them. Both of these places were expensive enough and the experience bad enough that I can't afford to give them the "it must have been an off night, try again" approach. Also, in both cases the other diners were either not that thrilled about either food or service or just not that impressed. So, have any of you found that there are people who will just go on and on about how "fabulous" a restaurant is, when, in reality, they really don't think it's that good, but don't want to appear "uncool" by pooh-poohing the place????? Because I am really confused There are way too many other places where we always have great food at appropriate prices, great service, great atmosphere, yet for some reason get lost. What is it???

I have definately gotten the impression that people seem to be peer pressured into liking things. Its very easy but can also be wrote off as difference of opinion. I still think a lot of places are very overrated because of "opinions by consensus" aka cool and uncool and people have difference of opinion. It's all of the above really so I just hear everything and believe nothing these days. I try anything once, then go from there. I can see your concern though. When a place is really expensive, you tend to feel duped by those who talked it up.

I really wish people would post the names of places when they have good or bad experiences. That is the point of this forum. It doesn't really do any good to make comments about an anonymous restaurant.

Seems like here on the Forum there's almost always someone with a contrarian opinion/different experience. The early Toast threads come to mind, for instance.

I really wish people would post the names of places when they have good or bad experiences. That is the point of this forum. It doesn't really do any good to make comments about an anonymous restaurant.

Ron: As I said, I have tried to avoid throwing out the names of the places because the management tried making ammends and everyone but me seems to LOVE these places! I was just curious, about "keeping up with the Jones'" attitudes. If everyone thinks it would be beneficial to tell the stories, I will.

So, have any of you found that there are people who will just go on and on about how "fabulous" a restaurant is, when, in reality, they really don't think it's that good, but don't want to appear "uncool" by pooh-poohing the place?????

I have seen it also. I just don't get it most times.

Joe

I'm all about cool.

I really wish people would post the names of places when they have good or bad experiences. That is the point of this forum. It doesn't really do any good to make comments about an anonymous restaurant.

Completely agree. Even if some amends were made because it becomes useless if the names are not mentioned.

Yeah, I mean, if they made amends, then it seems that it would show the management cares enough about the customer to make things right. Every restaurant will screw up from time to time, the really good ones attempt to rectify the situation.

Seems like here on the Forum there's almost always someone with a contrarian opinion/different experience. The early Toast threads come to mind, for instance.

I think that's kind of the point of the forum...to discuss, not to blanketly agree...

Seems like here on the Forum there's almost always someone with a contrarian opinion/different experience. The early Toast threads come to mind, for instance.

I think that's kind of the point of the forum...to discuss, not to blanketly agree...

I think the poster is wary of some of the harshness that is sometimes imparted in this board. I know I've been the victim of it, especially on the old board.

I think some of us can seem pushy, myself included, but as far as any of you is concerned, I'm just some dude typing on my computer....I don't think anyone on this forum should let someone else's opinions (no matter how heavy handed) affect their disclosure of key details...if she dimes on the two restaurants in question, sure someone will likely step up to defend them, but think of it as some form of journalism....she put it out there, and sure some people will rant about it on the opinion page...

discussion, people! It's why we're here!

I think some of us can seem pushy, myself included, but as far as any of you is concerned, I'm just some dude typing on my computer....I don't think anyone on this forum should let someone else's opinions (no matter how heavy handed) affect their disclosure of key details...if she dimes on the two restaurants in question, sure someone will likely step up to defend them, but think of it as some form of journalism....she put it out there, and sure some people will rant about it on the opinion page...

discussion, people! It's why we're here!

That said, I agree that the 2 restaurants should be named. Please don't lambaste the original poster. It's all very much subjective here. Let's put it out there and discuss the issue without trying to impose opinions on anyone else.

wait...isn't this entire forum based on personal opinions?

wait...isn't this entire forum based on personal opinions?

Yes, but imposing yours on another isn't part of the equation. Didn't you read my post?