In the past two weeks I traveled across several states for work. I stayed in a couple hotels and an Airbnb. Eating in restaurants mostly. I found the locally owned places very accommodating, with attentive wait staff and fast service. The combo gas station/convenience store places were next efficient. Sheetz was one, they advertise a higher pay level than others and it would seem to pay off. Every Sheetz I got fast service, made to order food well prepared and smiling faces. Then I tried an Applebee’s...over priced, poor service (I sat at my table for 20 minutes before anyone acknowledged me), food was poorly prepared and sadly presented. Finally was a bob Evans in Ohio. They obviously lack employees, but the staff could have done a better job of handling the shortage. From the snotty hostess to dried out food, had to get my own silver ware, to a flailing wait staff it was by far the worst.
The point of all this seems to be that the companies that take care of the employee end up taking care of the customer and as a result get repeat business.
The covid excuse is getting old. As a paying customer I don’t care about covid or a business shortage of workers. If you can’t give good service then shut your doors and just stop.
As a result of my trip Applebee’s is way down on my list with Bob Evans below that. This attitude will carry on for years, with these places being my last choice. I can say this...I ate at waffle house twice (different stores) and, despite the rep I had excellent service and well prepared food in a clean, friendly environment.
In Texas, we have Buc’ees. They’re expanding to other states in the Southeast. Immaculate restrooms, great service, and their brisket sandwiches are wonderful. Their starting salaries are in the $14+ range. I’ve yet to see a Buc’ees that was short staffed.
Oh well, it's probably best for my health I never go there again.