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Review content:
My husband and I eagerly awaited the reopening of the Black Bass Hotel Restaurant after the devastating damage caused by flooding of the Delaware. We watched the progress of the renovation, and when at last reservations were being accepted, we were told that we were one of the first callers.\r
It's too bad we never will return.\r
When we entered, we were thrilled to see that the restaurant had been meticulously restored. The foyer and dining areas were beautiful and welcoming. We looked forward to a sumptuous dinner in the newly refurbished surroundings.\r
We were greeted at reception, and I asked if we could be seated at one of the window tables overlooking the river. That was the start of a number of responses that clearly were misleading, at best. First, we were told that earlier diners had not left as soon as had been expected. I then asked if they took reservations in advance for the coveted tables, and was told, ""Not really. It's really done on a first come, first served basis."" Okay. As we were being led to our table, I noted two window tables for four that were unoccupied. So I asked, 'What about these?' Our escort declared that they had been reserved. Hmmm... this was beginning to sound dicey. After we sat down, my husband went to speak to the manager, who told him, ""I will see what I can do."" Our water glasses were filled, and we waited. The manager passed by our table several times, without looking our way. We perused the menu, which looked wonderful; prices were very high, but that was somewhat expected. By now, we were growing increasingly annoyed. We waited. A party of four arrived and was seated at one of the open tables. At this point, we were upset that essentially, we were being ignored by the staff. I asked my husband whether he was up to staying and spending a sizeable sum for a dinner under these circumstances. We got up and left. Near the exit, we met the manager, expressed our dissatisfaction with the so-called seating policy and declared that we would not return. It is too bad, because if the Black Bass is as good now as it was before the floods, we surely would have dined there on a regular basis.\r
I gave the Black Bass one star for its decor and ambiance.\r
This review has nothing to do with where we were seated. It has to do with courteous, respectful and accomodating treatment of patrons. This is just good business practice. Either the Black Bass has a seating policy, or it does not. If it does, it needs to adhere to it. In these economic times, it is astounding that patrons in a newly opened establishment are treated so poorly.
Pros: Beautiful restoration after flooding
Cons: Not customer oriented
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