We dined at The Charleston Grill on Christmas Eve. What a mistake!! This restaurant has lots of awards (including WS BAE) but was way off its game on Dec 24th. The management should re-read the advice "you only get one chance to make a good first impression". Background info ==We made our reservation one month in advance, we were on time & properly attired. The Charleston Grill is only open for dinner & "Palmetto" is another restaurant in the same complex. AN ODE TO THE CHARLESTON GRILL--'Twas the night before Christmas, when decked in our finery, we arrived at The Grill to be greeted by maitre'd. Our table was set near the lit Christmas tree, with a view of the band & the atrium lea. Expecting great food & service to die for, alas, we didn't know what we were in for. The waiter & wine gal were merry & helpful, for what happened next we'll give you an earful. Les amuses, aperitifs, it all started well, until all the traipsing started from hell. An innocent beginning, the patrons squeezed by, 'tween cheek by jowl tables, 'twas no aisle nigh. The little old lady snagged her coat on my spouse, her husband, his cane, but we didn't grouse. The candle it flickered, the glasses they clinked. The table was swaying but what should we think? It's Christmas, be thoughtful & loving & kind. They're old, need a shortcut so pay them no mind. But one moment later, a trailhead was opened. As patrons "scused" through us, we wondered what happened. How deftly the staff aimed them straight for our table, turning sidewise to ooze past our chairs, scarcely able. Don't use the aisle for groups--twos, fours, then eights! When diners are seated they should mind their own plates!! The final straw came when the manager fell on the head of my spouse who let out a yell. "Thousands of pardons" he sputtered & spewed, then picked up his menus to resume his trek through. We expected some changes, a new table at least, but nothing was offered by this Christmas beast. At last we inquired & oh what a flurry! Reseated on banquettes!! At warp speed, 'twas blurry!!! The ingratiating Grinch tried to be our best friend. Just what could he do, our feelings to mend? Another evening perhaps, as his personal guest. Guaranteed service & seating--The Best. We planned in November for each Charleston night. We researched chef's menus, our schedule was tight. Then lunch at Palmetto, "Here's my card" he enthused. With our tab north of 300, insult heaped on abuse. Seeking fine dining? Save yourself from this fate. Our evening was ruined, The Grill's too little too late.
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