Public House

What's it like?

I've reflected on Public House before, but my experience tonight warrants a new review.

I didn't want to, but I've just done something I haven't done in close to 10 years, if ever: I left a 10% tip. Actually, I rounded down, so it wasn't quite 10%.

I worked in the restaurant business—bussing and waiting on tables, and bartending—for several years, and am often highly critical of food service, though at times I'm also quite forgiving. No matter the experience, I tend to tip 15-20% minimum; where I worked, minimum wage for wait staff was $2.25, and though it's much higher here, I understand the need for a living wage.

Tonight, Kim and I met a friend for drinks at Public House. It was my call, and I decided to give the place yet another chance; after all, at 5:00 in the evening, I figured it couldn't be busy enough to slow service like the other times I'd been.

I arrived before Kim, but our friend was already seated. I had to part the sea of staff at the host stand (none of whom moved voluntarily), and took my seat. She had been there for a few minutes, but there were no menus. I didn't look at my watch, but it was at least 10 minutes before a server appeared.

Just thinking about the vibe this girl gave off puts me in a bad mood. Cold, unapproachable, and obviously uninterested in our business. We ordered drinks and an appetizer.

For the record, the sweet potato fries are good, and the curry dipping sauce is memorable. The beer selection is also good, but not worth the $5 + price tag for many of the brews (an there's no Happy Hour, either). We sat and talked for at least half an hour without any sign of our server.

Have I mentioned that the place was almost completely empty for most of our time there? There's just no excuse for such poor management.