Carrabba’s has always been one of my favorite restaurants, so during a long airport layover today I figured I’d stop in and grab a meal. Unfortunately, it turned out to be one of the worst dining experiences I’ve ever had. Honestly, I should have gone to Burger King.
The problems started the moment I walked in. No one was at the host stand, so I asked the bartender where the host was. She said, “He’ll be right with you.” Five minutes passed before two employees casually walked toward the front. Neither acknowledged the growing line of customers. One grabbed his lunch bag, the other grabbed a spray bottle and walked away.
At that point, there were about six customers waiting with no assistance. I finally walked further into the restaurant looking for someone to help. I asked the employee cleaning tables for assistance, and he responded with a nasty attitude, saying he was the host and he was “busy.” His name was Lamar.
After another five minutes, Lamar finally returned to the host stand, grabbed menus, and told everyone to “follow him” like we were on a group tour. He slammed the menus down on the table and said, “Sit here,” before walking off.
I noticed a sign saying orders had to be placed through a QR code, so I ordered online. The waitress who later came over was actually pleasant, which was the only positive part of the experience.
About 14 minutes later, the food arrived — bread, salad, and entrée all at the exact same time. Meanwhile, Lamar continued glaring at me the entire time as if he was upset customers expected basic service.
To make matters worse, the food was awful. I ordered two of my favorite menu items, and both were cold, bland, and completely unseasoned. By that point, I was over the entire experience. I overheard two other tables nearby complaining about similar issues and poor service as well.
I asked to speak with a manager, but no one ever came.
I paid my bill and left extremely disappointed. I’ve been a loyal Carrabba’s customer for years, but this particular airport location was unacceptable. The service was disorganized, the food quality was terrible, and the attitude from the host made the experience even worse.
Shame on Carrabba’s Airport location for allowing this level of customer service. Lamar clearly does not enjoy his role and should not be working front of house without serious customer service training. I guess now I see why they have 88 health department score.
I will never return to this location.