I just wanted everyone to know what happened to me at Murphy's tonight. I do not want to start another controversy about tipping all over again, just about the practice that happened to me. I had a tab of $4 something for 2 beers. I gave the waitress a $20, and she gave me back $14 change and walked away. Then she comes back and asks me if she did something wrong because I didn't tip her, and about how she only makes $3.65 a hour. I said excuse me but you gave me $14 change, which means you got your tip in the payment. Now I do not have a problem tipping, however when you didn't give all my change back, so I considered that your tip.
What do you guys think? I think that is kind of a questionable practice to not give back all of ones change, without the customer acknowledging keep the change. What really irks me is that this practice seems to vary amongst all the wait staff there. Some will give me back all of my change, while others will not.
Wow, what the hell is going on at that place?
Perhaps they read this forum and realize they are independent contractors who provide the owner 7 bucks or so per hour of labor for free in the hope they will end up making a reasonable amount by the end of the night.
Next time you are there and she approaches you for your order point to another waitress and say, "I want that waitress!"
Quote from: djbridgeland on December 03, 2008, 12:45 AM NHFT
What do you guys think?
I think you were completely in the right. That's quite obnoxious of a waiter to just pocket some of your change without your consent.
I was thinking about Murphy's Taproom last night (note: I wasn't at Taproom Tuesday; I just happened to read the thread requesting bids to develop a new website for the place). Personally, I've had *really* bad service there more than once. By "bad" service, I mean having to wait so long for my check that I finally got up and searched the bar for my waiter and asked for my check so I could pay it and leave. And repeatedly having waitresses who were surly and cold and almost made me feel guilty for trying to order food there. None of these incidents happened on Taproom Tuesday night, either, so the standard excuse of "it's a zoo" doesn't apply. Despite all that, I've taken my business to Murphy's at least a dozen times for two, and only two, reasons: the owners and investors are fellow Free Staters, and other Porcupines schedule get-togethers there. And yet, I've been struck by how many other Porcupines have posted in various places that the service at Murphy's stinks. I've also been told that in person by other Porcupines too demur to post it online. And how many people have now been banned from the place; honestly, I've lost count.
The Nashua liberty meetup met *once* at a place in Nashua, the service sucked, we all agreed it sucked, and the next month the group went elsewhere.
Perhaps it's time to stop cutting Murphy's Taproom so much slack?
I've never had them hold a couple dollars change. I don't think they've ever actually brought my coin change. They just assume I don't want it, and it's a fair assumption in my case, but it does seem inappropriate to assume that. What if someone is honestly disgusted with their service and intends to stiff them? Also, I've had a tab of less then $10, handed them a twenty and have them ask me if I need any change. Uhm, hell yeah I do!
I've had them not bring change, when the change was < 50cents. I'm fine with that. I had one time they didn't bring me $2.50 change. I asked for a dollar back, the waitress was kinda pissy about it, but I got it. About an hour later I asked for a water. She came back a few times sans water. I asked again, she was back a few times without a water. I asked someone holding a beer to ask for a water. They did and I had a water in a minute. I will NOT order food from that waitress. I will usually stand by the cash register to pay and make sure they don't try to keep more than they deserve, but for the most part I've been trying to NOT buy food there because of this.
Personally, I think if we grow a lot more, we're going to find we're less and less welcome; more and more so as Murphy's becomes reliant on others since as it is, we probably don't bring him as much business(other than making it look popular) as other groups that might come for a full dinner and occupy much less space.
to DJ
Is it possible that the keeping of the two dollars was simply and honest mistake and that you should have rectified the mistake by bringing it to her attention? How did she react when you told her she brought back the incorrect change?
And as a former waitress, I find it terribly unprofessional to a. ask if they need change and b. not bring back every last penny
Seems the free market solution to this is to pick your waitress. Refuse to be served by the waitresses who are established as inferior service providers.
That or find a new place to eat where the waitresses bring you water AND all your change back.
Quote from: Rodinia on December 03, 2008, 08:59 AM NHFT
And as a former waitress, I find it terribly unprofessional to a. ask if they need change and b. not bring back every last penny
I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels this way. Sometimes I'll just tell them how much change I want and that seems to work fine, especially if it's a small amount, like a buck or two, and they may have it on them. I did it last night and it worked fine.
Anyone who attended Taproom Tuesday. Is the place as crowded as it has been in the past? People buying meals or just discount beers?
I think as pink slips appear and people start to tighten their belts Sport Bars would have to take a hit.
Solution: Move to Keene, hang with us at Vendetta. 8)
Taproom was great last night. I saw people order meals. I was able to buy a 1/2 price ap (before 6pm on weekdays) and had a local beer (Shipyard). The place was crowded and my service was great. I asked the waiter for my bill (but that's not bad as it is a pub) and he brought it right out. I like the service at Taproom much better than the almost no service at Vendetta but then I've never tipped 30% at Vendetta so it works out.
I think when I go next I will pay in exact cash and tip for the service I get. That means if I get shitty service I will give a shitty tip. If I get okay service I will give an okay tip. If by some miracle I get good service well then I will give a good tip. Oh and that's NOT 30%. ::)
I can't even believe that more than one person has been stiffed of their correct change. I've never been stiffed of change at any restaurant I've been to and I would never return to a place that has stiffed me.
And for a waitress to bring up how much she makes in that setting to a person she's supposed to be serving is appalling. What has happened to the service industry? $3.65? Wendy's is hiring for $8. . .but if I were manager I would never hire someone that would speak to a customer about how much money they make.
I like the suggestion of Vendetta, I got my food brought out, I brought the plate back. I paid a generous tip for the mere fact that the food was fantastic, above and beyond the price I paid for it. The man behind the bar was cheerful and never said a bad word about my lack of imbibing alcohol. I've gone to places that have made it a bit of an embarrassing situation trying to get the bartender to understand that I don't drink anymore, and I don't feel the need to let him know why.
I don't have anything against murphy's, but even the owner should know that these testimonials do not help him any. I have heard grumblings that Free Staters should be thankful for such a meetup place and pay extra well because of it. Because some people decide to drink and converse at your establishment?? I think I'd be happy with just having some paying customers, some that are willing to shell out the type of money asked for average food. Again, not trying to be a dick, but I fancy myself a critic on restaurants.
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 03, 2008, 11:28 AM NHFT
Taproom was great last night. I saw people order meals. I was able to buy a 1/2 price ap (before 6pm on weekdays) and had a local beer (Shipyard). The place was crowded and my service was great. I asked the waiter for my bill (but that's not bad as it is a pub) and he brought it right out. I like the service at Taproom much better than the almost no service at Vendetta but then I've never tipped 30% at Vendetta so it works out.
Vendetta is a bar. You order at the bar, they bring it out to you. There's a bartender and a cook, and sometimes just a bartender/cook, so no one should expect full service there. That said, the food at Vendetta is quite good!
wicked good
Quote from: FreeKeene.com's Ian on December 03, 2008, 02:22 PM NHFT
Vendetta is a bar. You order at the bar, they bring it out to you. There's a bartender and a cook, and sometimes just a bartender/cook, so no one should expect full service there. That said, the food at Vendetta is quite good!
I know. Taproom is a pub. Bars (old school types like Vendetta) have almost no service. Pubs have little service. Restaurants may be full service.
Of course, Keith expects upscale dinning tip percentages at Taproom even though the places offers bad service (by upscale dinning standards).
Oh and LastLady, I tipped 30% because I got a half priced app at Taproom and it is customary to tip extra on discounted food :) I would have just tipped 20% (because the service really was great, better than I've ever had at Taproom).
Looks to me like some of the wait staff know that tipping is mandatory and abuse it.
I hate wait staff. They are usually annoying or worthless. I just prefer to do stuff myself.
I have had 2 experiences in the last few weeks with one particular new waitress that has left me with a very bad opinion of her.
The first time was when she spilled a portion of the beer she was serving me onto and under my Mac Laptop.
Her reaction was, at first: "Oh...there are some napkins right there" as if she expected me to take care of it myself.
I think my visible reaction to that made her change her mind.
The following week, I sat in her section again and ordered. I was soon met by another waitress (who was very nice and accommodating) saying she was taking over for the first waitress and to let her know if we needed anything. Well...we waited for our food. Nothing came. Other people got theirs even though we had been there far longer. Finally I asked what was up. Our new waitress went in the kitchen to find that the original order was never turned in.
So this week. I moved into Elijah's section when I saw the original waitress was going to be serving me.
BTW...I always tip. 20%+ But if the service is bad, I go out of my way to make sure the offending party somehow reaps what they have sown ;)
Ha! So interesting this topic is rearing it's ugly head again. You know I don't eat out that often anymore and when I do it is usually for business and someone else is paying or it's because I am being asked out and again someone else is paying. But! The last meal I had out came to $9.40, the service and meal was good. No complaints. Now what is a 15% tip on $9.40? Well it's $1.41 so I rounded up to $1.50. But that is still considered being cheap. WTF!
I have on one occasion eaten at an establishment that was a restaurant and bar. I paid the bill and the waitress came back with the change which was missing the coin part. When I let her know I was missing .75 cents she said "well, it's the policy to round up, we don't give back change." I actually thought she was lying and insisted I get my full change back. I later called her manager to report what I thought was deliberate theft and I was told that indeed that was their policy. Never ate there again.
All I can say is I just don't understand this type of shit at all.
Murphy's food is okay and their service goes from okay to shitty, but in full disclosure I've only eaten there about 4 times. The last time I was there it was nearly empty I think I was the only table, there were two of us. And the bar had about 2-3 people. I sat forever to get served. I mean forever.......
I wasn't in an hurry so it didn't really matter. I started to laugh at how ridiculous and pathetic it was. I thought maybe this is a New Hampshire thing. But I've been to about 10 other places and it didn't go down like that. At one point I got up and went to the bar to order a beer. The wiatress was just chatting away with someone. She didn't even notice or care, that I was her customer.
My new attitude, so I don't get pissed...
GO Ahead SAVE me money!!!! ;D
Quote from: lastlady on December 03, 2008, 04:17 PM NHFT
I have on one occasion eaten at an establishment that was a restaurant and bar. I paid the bill and the waitress came back with the change which was missing the coin part. When I let her know I was missing .75 cents she said "well, it's the policy to round up, we don't give back change." I actually thought she was lying and insisted I get my full change back. I later called her manager to report what I thought was deliberate theft and I was told that indeed that was their policy. Never ate there again.
Next time go there and say, "It's my policy to round down, because I don't have change."
Quote from: FreeKeene.com's Ian on December 03, 2008, 02:22 PM NHFT
Vendetta is a bar. You order at the bar, they bring it out to you. There's a bartender and a cook, and sometimes just a bartender/cook, so no one should expect full service there. That said, the food at Vendetta is quite good!
50 cent wings!
The wings are only 58 cents are Taproom before 6pm :)
Oh, and last time I was at Vendetta I wasn't given my change back but I still tipped :)
It seems pretty clear that the safest thing to do is stay home, do your own cooking and pour your own drinks! ;D
Vendetta Vs. Murphy's Kombat
begin!
Quote from: Seth on December 03, 2008, 08:52 PM NHFT
Heh, doobie, bringing a water to a person without food would be the very last thing on my list when I was a server. I ranked it behind going and talking about the game in the break room. ;) It's called self-interest.
This kind of thinking is why I wish there was no such thing as tipping. Perhaps I'm crazy but wouldn't it be nice if service was something that the server actually took pride in?
What a bunch of whores. Actually I find whores to have more integrity.
I tip well, and have repeatedly received poor service at Murphy's. Plus, I go there relatively sporadically, so I can't imagine any of the waitstaff even knows whether or not I'm going to tip well as they're serving me.
Quote from: Seth on December 03, 2008, 08:52 PM NHFT
Heh, doobie, bringing a water to a person without food would be the very last thing on my list when I was a server. I ranked it behind going and talking about the game in the break room. ;) It's called self-interest.
I've always had good service at Murphy's. I mean, I usually have to specifically get a waitress' attention if I want something, but I get it right away. Of course, I tip well too so that may be why. ;D
I had food earlier in the evening and had tipped really well; it was the first time she was there and I believe I tipped $2.50 on 7.50, I think I should have gotten a water at least the second time I asked and not having had to ask again. When you regular a place, tipping nicely is not just for previous service, but on the expectation that I'll get good service the next time. She's lost any semblance of me giving her a tip like that again. And it makes me more likely to either go and just socialize or not go at all.
Or how about a little honesty?
Customer "Hi, can I have a glass of water when you have a chance?"
Waiter "No, there's no more money to be made on you."
Quote from: Friday on December 03, 2008, 07:49 AM NHFT
Perhaps it's time to stop cutting Murphy's Taproom so much slack?
we haven't gone to Murphy's in months
I can think of much better places to hold get-to-gethers in manchester.
Quote from: lastlady on December 03, 2008, 04:17 PM NHFT
"well, it's the policy to round up, we don't give back change."
"Oh, that makes sense! Who wants to mess with coins? But since you're rounding up, you owe me an extra dollar with my change."
;)
Quote from: lastlady on December 03, 2008, 09:10 PM NHFT
Or how about a little honesty?
Customer "Hi, can I have a glass of water when you have a chance?"
Waiter "No, there's no more money to be made on you."
She made enough on me earlier in the night (I tipped around 2.50 on 7.50). And there was plenty more to be made the next week if she had gotten me my water without me having to ask someone else to get me a water. And I might have tipped her just for bringing me a water, but nope. She gets no more tip money from me, because I had to ask twice and then have someone ask for a water.
I am reading these reports with interest.
Since this all started with me saying I'm going out for a beer, who's up for one, I am considering the idea of going somewhere else.
Ironically, none of the things mentioned has ever happened to me at Murphy's.
I wonder how many times things like this happen at other restaurants, but they just don't get talked about as much because there isn't a group of people as devoted to using public ostracism as a form of justice as we are. In other words, are we holding Murphy's to a much higher standard than other customers do?
Myself, I've had slow service on a number of occasions, but only witnessed truly bad service on a couple of occasions. Most of the waitstaff I've dealt with have been acceptable. Elijah's definitely the best waiter there now. None of the other people I remember being really good, or really bad, work there anymore. I've not yet had trouble with tips or change-counting with any of them, but I never rely on the waitstaff to do it right anyway: I either give them exactly what I intend to pay, tip included, or tell them exactly how much change I want back, the difference being the tip.
Did you talk to Keith about the incident? I know last time he requested to be made aware of any complaints. I mean, if you're going to air your complaint here (knowing the other thread was brought up) you might honor that request.
I'd consider what she did to be theft unless she seemed genuine that it was a MISTAKE. I'd certainly let a manager know if I'd been stolen from in their place of business and I'd certainly not go back unles I was satisfied with that result.
if you go back and tell the manager you might be doing him a favor by allowing them to make good for you. If you want to really stick it to a place you'll save your breath for the 10-20 others you might tell about your horrible experience. Fair? Not at all. . . but completely within their rights.
I've NEVER been stolen from on a check, if this happened to me I wouldn't think twice about skipping that place.
Quote from: error on December 04, 2008, 01:53 PM NHFT
I am reading these reports with interest.
Since this all started with me saying I'm going out for a beer, who's up for one, I am considering the idea of going somewhere else.
Ironically, none of the things mentioned has ever happened to me at Murphy's.
maybe that's because you have the magic touch! ;) ;D
Quote from: lastlady on December 03, 2008, 04:17 PM NHFT
I paid the bill and the waitress came back with the change which was missing the coin part. When I let her know I was missing .75 cents she said "well, it's the policy to round up, we don't give back change."
I'm usually rounding up my tips to the nearest dollar, so if my bill was 7.25 and I give them $10 and they came back with $2 change only, they WOULD have gotten $2 in tip, but now only get $1.75. I don't carry change around, but I collect it.
I've never said anything about this to Keith, but maybe I'll give them another chance when I go back and next time I get "screwed" I'll bring it up with Keith.
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on December 04, 2008, 02:12 PM NHFT
I wonder how many times things like this happen at other restaurants, but they just don't get talked about as much because there isn't a group of people as devoted to using public ostracism as a form of justice as we are. In other words, are we holding Murphy's to a much higher standard than other customers do?
I think many are wanting to hold his place to a higher standard ... and actually commenting since they know the owner ... and are interested in nonviolent market solutions.
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on December 04, 2008, 02:12 PM NHFT
I wonder how many times things like this happen at other restaurants, but they just don't get talked about as much because there isn't a group of people as devoted to using public ostracism as a form of justice as we are. In other words, are we holding Murphy's to a much higher standard than other customers do?
I believe many of us are holding Murphy's Taproom to a *lower* standard. I would have decided not to go back there long ago, based on the service, if not for the fact that Porcupine events often take place there. If a close friend, or spouse, had actually been banned, or if I personally had ever been cheated on my change, I would never set foot in the place again. Porcupines are a forgiving bunch, IMO.
Quote from: error on December 04, 2008, 01:53 PM NHFT
Since this all started with me saying I'm going out for a beer, who's up for one, I am considering the idea of going somewhere else.
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
Quote from: Friday on December 04, 2008, 07:01 PM NHFT
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on December 04, 2008, 02:12 PM NHFT
I wonder how many times things like this happen at other restaurants, but they just don't get talked about as much because there isn't a group of people as devoted to using public ostracism as a form of justice as we are. In other words, are we holding Murphy's to a much higher standard than other customers do?
I believe many of us are holding Murphy's Taproom to a *lower* standard. I would have decided not to go back there long ago, based on the service, if not for the fact that Porcupine events often take place there. If a close friend, or spouse, had actually been banned, or if I personally had ever been cheated on my change, I would never set foot in the place again. Porcupines are a forgiving bunch, IMO.
I think there's a little bit of both: On the one hand, every little problem with Murphy's gets aired publicly, which is rare—most people don't bother complaining about bad business anymore, they just stop going to such places (or worse, put up with it). On the other hand, though, since Keith is a freestater, everyone, including myself, has a lot more tolerance for problems at Murphy's than we would dealing with other places.
I dunno... More quick to point out problems, but more quick to forgive them, too?
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
Better still, does New Hampshire have Ruby Tuesday's franchises?
My friends and I are all cheap bastards and go to Applebees after 9 or 10 and get half prices appetizers. Wings for 4 bucks, what could be better? Sure, the food is garbage, but what a deal.
And I think they have like 1.99 beers or some deal, but the government doesn't let people like me do business with businesses regarding alcohol so I'm not sure.
http://maps.google.com/maps?rlz=1C1GGLS_enUS291US303&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&um=1&q=ruby+tuesday,+nh&fb=1&view=text&sa=X&oi=local_group&resnum=1&ct=more-results&cd=1 (http://maps.google.com/maps?rlz=1C1GGLS_enUS291US303&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&um=1&q=ruby+tuesday,+nh&fb=1&view=text&sa=X&oi=local_group&resnum=1&ct=more-results&cd=1)
Ruby Tuesday? - Write a review
327 Loudon Rd, Concord, NH? - (603) 223-2505?
Ruby Tuesday? - Write a review
1500 S Willow St, Manchester, NH? - (603) 669-8342?
Ruby Tuesday? - Write a review
275 Amherst St, Nashua, NH? - (603) 882-0099?
?
Ruby Tuesday? - Write a review
99 Rockingham Park Blvd # 1105, Salem, NH? - (603) 870-9560?
Ruby Tuesday? - Write a review
1574 Woodbury Ave, Portsmouth, NH? - (603) 559-9740?
?
Ruby Tuesday? (Unverified listing) - Write a review
327 Hopkinton Road, Concord, NH? - (603) 223-2505?
?
Quote from: AntonLee on December 04, 2008, 09:35 PM NHFTRuby Tuesday? (Unverified listing) - Write a review
327 Hopkinton Road, Concord, NH? - (603) 223-2505?
? I don't think that exists, Hokinton Road is the extension of Pleasant Street, and is mad rural where that would be if still located in Concord.
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on December 04, 2008, 08:19 PM NHFT...most people don't bother complaining about bad business anymore, they just stop going to such places (or worse, put up with it). On the other hand, though, since Keith is a freestater, everyone, including myself, has a lot more tolerance for problems at Murphy's than we would dealing with other places.
That describes me to a tee. I said it before that when I complained about a waitress there, it was a courtesy. Anywhere else and I would have left and never come back. However, often I will complain somewhere AND not come back. I figure the least I can do is say why so the manager can try to rectify the situation and hopefully save other customers from the misery.
Actually, I shouldn't say "often". I very rarely have problems bad enough to need to talk to a manager. Murphy's was one such place though. The truth is he doesn't need Free Staters anymore. He gets plenty of business without us. I wonder if his wait staff dreads our parties on Tuesdays and if that makes the service worse than it normally is.
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on December 04, 2008, 09:19 PM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
Better still, does New Hampshire have Ruby Tuesday's franchises?
There's definitely a Ruby Tuesday's in Nausea. But I prefer the burgers at Chili's; those things rock. :notworthy:
Quote from: Friday on December 04, 2008, 10:23 PM NHFT
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on December 04, 2008, 09:19 PM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
Better still, does New Hampshire have Ruby Tuesday's franchises?
There's definitely a Ruby Tuesday's in Nausea. But I prefer the burgers at Chili's; those things rock. :notworthy:
Chili's... Mmmm...
Hard to find a good burger anymore.
Unless you make it your self.
There is a Chili's down the block from me
maybe I should try their burgers.
Quote from: Pat K on December 04, 2008, 10:49 PM NHFT
Hard to find a good burger anymore.
Unless you make it your self.
There is a Chili's down the block from me
maybe I should try their burgers.
There is a Chili's down the block from you? Bastard.
"Yeah, there is a Chili's I could walk to..." Screw you city boy.
Quote from: Facilitator to the Icon on December 04, 2008, 11:02 PM NHFT
Quote from: Pat K on December 04, 2008, 10:49 PM NHFT
Hard to find a good burger anymore.
Unless you make it your self.
There is a Chili's down the block from me
maybe I should try their burgers.
There is a Chili's down the block from you? Bastard.
"Yeah, there is a Chili's I could walk to..." Screw you city boy.
I don't know if ya ever noticed, but I don't
walk anywere. I drive to the end of the 20 foot driveway to get the mail. I am a suburban boy. Chili's is down the block, most every kind of store is within a few blocks. It is supposed to be a feature.
But for me not so much..........
"It's a feature." That's what I tell Roger every time I fuck something up.
Quote from: dalebert on December 04, 2008, 10:04 PM NHFT
Murphy's was one such place though. The truth is he doesn't need Free Staters anymore. He gets plenty of business without us. I wonder if his wait staff dreads our parties on Tuesdays and if that makes the service worse than it normally is.
Considering that people have reported terrible service on other days,* and considering that Elijah, who works on Tuesdays, does exceptionally well at handling the Taproom Tuesday crowd, I don't see how one could conclude this.
* The worst service I witnessed was on a random day that wasn't Taproom Tuesday. I was there with a couple other activists stuffing envelopes for a political campaign. I wasn't drinking, but one guy got up and left after about ten minutes of waiting and the other kept having to go up to the bar to get service. The place was nearly empty and the waitress was just standing at the bar chatting with someone the whole time.
Quote from: Pat K on December 04, 2008, 11:07 PM NHFT
Quote from: Facilitator to the Icon on December 04, 2008, 11:02 PM NHFT
Quote from: Pat K on December 04, 2008, 10:49 PM NHFT
Hard to find a good burger anymore.
Unless you make it your self.
There is a Chili's down the block from me
maybe I should try their burgers.
There is a Chili's down the block from you? Bastard.
"Yeah, there is a Chili's I could walk to..." Screw you city boy.
I don't know if ya ever noticed, but I don't
walk anywere. I drive to the end of the 20 foot driveway to get the mail. I am a suburban boy. Chili's is down the block, most every kind of store is within a few blocks. It is supposed to be a feature.
But for me not so much..........
Because us suburban folk do drive everywhere,
we say stuff like it's down the block. I marked it on
the way home tonight it is 1 mile. So it is very walkable
bo no suburbanite would, until gas is about 12 bucks a gallon.
Quote from: Friday on December 04, 2008, 10:23 PM NHFT
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on December 04, 2008, 09:19 PM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
Better still, does New Hampshire have Ruby Tuesday's franchises?
There's definitely a Ruby Tuesday's in Nausea. But I prefer the burgers at Chili's; those things rock. :notworthy:
And Chili's drink prices are about what Taproom's are and the app. may cost even less but if we are considering non-FSer restaurants I suggest Dunkin Donuts :) It really cannot be beat.
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 05, 2008, 12:03 AM NHFT
Quote from: Friday on December 04, 2008, 10:23 PM NHFT
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on December 04, 2008, 09:19 PM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
Better still, does New Hampshire have Ruby Tuesday's franchises?
There's definitely a Ruby Tuesday's in Nausea. But I prefer the burgers at Chili's; those things rock. :notworthy:
And Chili's drink prices are about what Taproom's are and the app. may cost even less but if we are considering non-FSer restaurants I suggest Dunkin Donuts :) It really cannot be beat.
That i'd be alright sipt'n Dunkin Donuts is a pig's tough.
Quote from: Facilitator to the Icon on December 05, 2008, 12:19 AM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 05, 2008, 12:03 AM NHFT
Quote from: Friday on December 04, 2008, 10:23 PM NHFT
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on December 04, 2008, 09:19 PM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
Better still, does New Hampshire have Ruby Tuesday's franchises?
There's definitely a Ruby Tuesday's in Nausea. But I prefer the burgers at Chili's; those things rock. :notworthy:
And Chili's drink prices are about what Taproom's are and the app. may cost even less but if we are considering non-FSer restaurants I suggest Dunkin Donuts :) It really cannot be beat.
That i'd be alright sipt'n Dunkin Donuts is a pig's tough.
You tell em Jim!
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on December 04, 2008, 09:19 PM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
Better still, does New Hampshire have Ruby Tuesday's franchises?
I wouldn't go to Ruby Tuesdays. I might be convinced to go to Friday's. Just remember...any other place and you will probably be expected to buy food and not just go and socialize.
Quote from: J'raxis 270145 on December 04, 2008, 08:19 PM NHFT
I dunno... More quick to point out problems, but more quick to forgive them, too?
or whiners that don't do anything about it? ;)
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
if you start it ... they will come
there are plenty of places that have extra space so not everyone has to eat/drink ... it helps if there is no waitstaff that you are occupying. That is why we once chose Panera at night. It was quiet, so they liked the business, but not everyone had to order and we were not taking up needed space.
Quote from: Facilitator to the Icon on December 04, 2008, 11:02 PM NHFT
Quote from: Pat K on December 04, 2008, 10:49 PM NHFT
Hard to find a good burger anymore.
Unless you make it your self.
There is a Chili's down the block from me
maybe I should try their burgers.
There is a Chili's down the block from you? Bastard.
"Yeah, there is a Chili's I could walk to..." Screw you city boy.
There is a Chilis in Hadley, Mass. 40 miles for you!
Quote from: Facilitator to the Icon on December 04, 2008, 11:02 PM NHFT
There is a Chili's down the block from you? Bastard.
"Yeah, there is a Chili's I could walk to..." Screw you city boy.
There's a Chili's *I* could walk to. Not all of New Hampshire is the hinterlands, ya know. ;D
Quote from: Russell Kanning on December 05, 2008, 05:40 AM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
if you start it ... they will come
If you start it, Sandy will throw you down the stairs!
Quote from: Friday on December 04, 2008, 10:23 PM NHFT
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on December 04, 2008, 09:19 PM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
Better still, does New Hampshire have Ruby Tuesday's franchises?
There's definitely a Ruby Tuesday's in Nausea. But I prefer the burgers at Chili's; those things rock. :notworthy:
I wasn't really
recommending it--it's an unexceptional fern-bar franchise. But the suggestion of Freestate Fridays at Friday's made me think of Taproom Tuesdays at . . .
Quote from: doobie on December 05, 2008, 04:53 AM NHFT
Quote from: Sam A. Robrin on December 04, 2008, 09:19 PM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
Better still, does New Hampshire have Ruby Tuesday's franchises?
I wouldn't go to Ruby Tuesdays. I might be convinced to go to Friday's. Just remember...any other place and you will probably be expected to buy food and not just go and socialize.
See my comment to Friday about Freestate Fridays at Friday's (for the brew that is true . . . ?) above.
A lot of places have rooms you can reserve if you have big enough crowds, and we almost always do. Porcs could even have some space all to themselves which is something they don't get at Murphy's.
Quote from: Russell Kanning on December 05, 2008, 05:44 AM NHFT
there are plenty of places that have extra space so not everyone has to eat/drink ... it helps if there is no waitstaff that you are occupying. That is why we once chose Panera at night. It was quiet, so they liked the business, but not everyone had to order and we were not taking up needed space.
Yeah, that's one of the many benefits of Dunkin Donuts :)
We've never had a problem with Elijah. Thus, we make a point of sitting in his section.
Quote from: Jon Maltz on December 05, 2008, 09:22 AM NHFT
We've never had a problem with Elijah. Thus, we make a point of sitting in his section.
I can't recall any problems with him either. Unfortunately, I don't seem to get him very often. Maybe I should make a point to ask him which are his tables next time. Last time I sat where my computer cord could reach the socket since my battery is shot.
What about the Strange Brew pub on Market St.? I've heard their beer selection kicks ass AND they have Tuesday $2 pints...although that is unconfirmed information.
Quote from: Lloyd Danforth on December 05, 2008, 07:26 AM NHFT
Quote from: Russell Kanning on December 05, 2008, 05:40 AM NHFT
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 04, 2008, 08:00 PM NHFT
You and Friday are on to something. How about we have Freestate Fridays at Friday's?
if you start it ... they will come
If you start it, Sandy will throw you down the stairs!
We should start habitating at Borders somewhere, and open carry. Wonder what the police would do if all of the sudden 4-8 of us came in open carrying?
QuoteWe should start habitating at Borders somewhere, and open carry. Wonder what the police would do if all of the sudden 4-8 of us came in open carrying?
Quoteany other place and you will probably be expected to buy food and not just go and socialize.
I honestly can't imagine getting a pleasant response from any business owner where you walk in, take up space, spend nothing and make customers uncomfortable. Loitering on private property is just annoying.
Quote from: doobie on December 05, 2008, 02:13 PM NHFT
We should start habitating at Borders somewhere, and open carry. Wonder what the police would do if all of the sudden 4-8 of us came in open carrying?
maybe Borders won't like it
Quote
I honestly can't imagine getting a pleasant response from any business owner where you walk in, take up space, spend nothing and make customers uncomfortable. Loitering on private property is just annoying.
Me either. Not only can I not imagine getting a pleasant response from the owner, who would expect it? It's downright inconsiderate on the part of the individual to expect to enter an establishment and not spend any money AND assume your presence is appreciated. For fuck's sake, at least buy a soft drink!!
You can hang out at your house and your friends houses free of charge. Business is business. That said, bad business is not worth spending money on.
Border's would be a sad replacement for TT which is primarily a social event; not a meeting per se. Border's isn't necessarily bad for meeting to make plans for something though. You need a place where people can eat, drink (especially drink), and be merry.
Beer is an absolute...no, wait, GOOD beer is an absolute necessity for any good meeting. At La Festa on Wednesday's they've got pizza by the slice for a couple bucks and deliciously good beer on tap. 22oz tall frosty mugs for 4.50 a glass. Rogue yellowsnow IPA is the current delight I'm enjoying.
Unless so many are unhappy, just keep going to Murphy's Taproom on Tuesdays. Unless they don't want you there? Borders wouldn't be right, not the right mood, but I disagree they have big comfy chairs for sitting and reading, one doesn't always have to spend money to enjoy Borders.
Shit happens in every restaurant, servers all over the country can be horrible at their job.
Murphy's can't really be all that different. I do like Murphy's, just get shitty service sometimes, but then again that is just the American way. ;)
Quote from: dalebert on December 05, 2008, 09:36 AM NHFT
Quote from: Jon Maltz on December 05, 2008, 09:22 AM NHFT
We've never had a problem with Elijah. Thus, we make a point of sitting in his section.
I can't recall any problems with him either. Unfortunately, I don't seem to get him very often. Maybe I should make a point to ask him which are his tables next time. Last time I sat where my computer cord could reach the socket since my battery is shot.
He'd been moved from the Tuesday shift for a while, but was back on it as of a couple weeks ago.
He usually has the round table in the corner.
Quote from: Rodinia on December 05, 2008, 02:30 PM NHFT
Quote
I honestly can't imagine getting a pleasant response from any business owner where you walk in, take up space, spend nothing and make customers uncomfortable. Loitering on private property is just annoying.
Me either. Not only can I not imagine getting a pleasant response from the owner, who would expect it? It's downright inconsiderate on the part of the individual to expect to enter an establishment and not spend any money AND assume your presence is appreciated.
I knew someone that worked at Borders. Their policy is very lenient on "customers" that don't spend money. People are pretty much welcome to come in, read all day for free inside, and leave if they want.
I would argue that that is different situation than an individual who enters a non-franchise restaurant, takes a spot and doesn't patronize the joint. Customer turnover is an important consideration to a restaurant.
When I go to a book store to buy a book, I don't sit inside and read it.
Years ago book stores were a lot smaller and the owners would sometimes watch you like a Hawk. When I went into my first Barnes & Noble and saw the chairs and tables, and people sitting around reading I thought it was great.
Some people carry the concept to extremes. I was at the register once when a woman walked up with her finger in a book she carried, marking the page and asked if they had a copier ;D
When bookstores added overstuffed chairs and coffee shops, they did so to invite people to sit and read, or otherwise enjoy themselves.
Borders, B&N, and Books-A-Million all openly invite people to come in, sit, meet, read, use the free wifi, etc. They hope you'll buy something while you're there, whether it's a book or a grande latte, but they don't kick out people who don't (unless they're annoying other customers).
If there is a coffee shop I will usually get some coffee and some woodworking magazines, look thru the magazines, and leave buying one of the mags and a paperback mystery or once or twice a year a hardcover.
Quote from: djbridgeland on December 03, 2008, 12:45 AM NHFT
I just wanted everyone to know what happened to me at Murphy's tonight. I do not want to start another controversy about tipping all over again, just about the practice that happened to me. I had a tab of $4 something for 2 beers. I gave the waitress a $20, and she gave me back $14 change and walked away. Then she comes back and asks me if she did something wrong because I didn't tip her, and about how she only makes $3.65 a hour. I said excuse me but you gave me $14 change, which means you got your tip in the payment. Now I do not have a problem tipping, however when you didn't give all my change back, so I considered that your tip.
What do you guys think? I think that is kind of a questionable practice to not give back all of ones change, without the customer acknowledging keep the change. What really irks me is that this practice seems to vary amongst all the wait staff there. Some will give me back all of my change, while others will not.
If you know who 1) asked why you didn't tip, or 2) didn't give you back full change, please let me know and I will ensure she no longer works for me. I do not tolerate this behavior from any staff member. I've fired employees for it in the past, and I'll do it again. Please tell me who it was.
Quote from: Friday on December 03, 2008, 07:49 AM NHFT
Quote from: djbridgeland on December 03, 2008, 12:45 AM NHFT
What do you guys think?
I think you were completely in the right. That's quite obnoxious of a waiter to just pocket some of your change without your consent.
I agree. I need to know who it is to fix the issue. I've made it extremely clear to all of them that doing this means their job. If it happens to you, please let me know.
Quote
I was thinking about Murphy's Taproom last night ...
I get a lot of compliments on the service here, and very few complaints. I wish someone would actually complain to me about service if there was an issue, instead of posting about it online. I'm not hard to find. I'm virtually always here, and most of you have my email address.
Quote
And how many people have now been banned from the place; honestly, I've lost count.
Exactly one. I'm pretty sure you can count to one, Sandy.
Quote from: AntonLee on December 03, 2008, 02:16 PM NHFTI don't have anything against murphy's, but even the owner should know that these testimonials do not help him any. I have heard grumblings that Free Staters should be thankful for such a meetup place and pay extra well because of it. Because some people decide to drink and converse at your establishment?? I think I'd be happy with just having some paying customers, some that are willing to shell out the type of money asked for average food. Again, not trying to be a dick, but I fancy myself a critic on restaurants.
I've never every said anything remotely like this. Ever. On the contrary, I've repeatedly thanked people online and offline for their patronage.
Quote from: Radical and Stuff on December 03, 2008, 02:33 PM NHFT
Of course, Keith expects upscale dinning tip percentages at Taproom even though the places offers bad service (by upscale dinning standards).
I expect customers to leave an appropriate tip. 15-20% for quality service isn't upscale, it's the industry standard. If the service is bad, by all means leave no tip. I've only ever said anything to one guy, because it was his policy to never ever tip. I find it acceptable for someone to come into my business ten times, receive quality service every time, and never, ever tip. But I will never blame anyone for not tipping for bad service.
Quote from: Rearden on December 12, 2008, 11:59 PM NHFT
Quote from: AntonLee on December 03, 2008, 02:16 PM NHFTI don't have anything against murphy's, but even the owner should know that these testimonials do not help him any. I have heard grumblings that Free Staters should be thankful for such a meetup place and pay extra well because of it. Because some people decide to drink and converse at your establishment?? I think I'd be happy with just having some paying customers, some that are willing to shell out the type of money asked for average food. Again, not trying to be a dick, but I fancy myself a critic on restaurants.
I've never every said anything remotely like this. Ever. On the contrary, I've repeatedly thanked people online and offline for their patronage.
I didn't take it that Anton was saying you were grumbling, I took it that some FSP members (which I have seen) have basically said well were lucky to have place to meet up. I think that is what Anton was referring to but I can't speak for him, but I just know thats how *I* took it.
Quote from: Rearden on December 13, 2008, 12:01 AM NHFT
I expect customers to leave an appropriate tip. 15-20% for quality service isn't upscale, it's the industry standard. If the service is bad, by all means leave no tip. I've only ever said anything to one guy, because it was his policy to never ever tip. I find it acceptable for someone to come into my business ten times, receive quality service every time, and never, ever tip. But I will never blame anyone for not tipping for bad service.
emphasis added
You mean 'unacceptable', right?
Quote from: Giggan on December 13, 2008, 11:23 AM NHFT
emphasis added
You mean 'unacceptable', right?
Right, sorry.
Quote from: AntonLee on December 03, 2008, 02:16 PM NHFT
I can't even believe that more than one person has been stiffed of their correct change. I've never been stiffed of change at any restaurant I've been to and I would never return to a place that has stiffed me.
And for a waitress to bring up how much she makes in that setting to a person she's supposed to be serving is appalling. What has happened to the service industry? $3.65? Wendy's is hiring for $8. . .but if I were manager I would never hire someone that would speak to a customer about how much money they make.
I like the suggestion of Vendetta, I got my food brought out, I brought the plate back. I paid a generous tip for the mere fact that the food was fantastic, above and beyond the price I paid for it. The man behind the bar was cheerful and never said a bad word about my lack of imbibing alcohol. I've gone to places that have made it a bit of an embarrassing situation trying to get the bartender to understand that I don't drink anymore, and I don't feel the need to let him know why.
I don't have anything against murphy's, but even the owner should know that these testimonials do not help him any. I have heard grumblings that Free Staters should be thankful for such a meetup place and pay extra well because of it. Because some people decide to drink and converse at your establishment?? I think I'd be happy with just having some paying customers, some that are willing to shell out the type of money asked for average food. Again, not trying to be a dick, but I fancy myself a critic on restaurants.
The first time I heard a place I frequent wasn't appreciative of my business and was bitching about it - I'm done with them. Can't find a new place yet guys?
Quote from: Hubbard on December 13, 2008, 06:00 PM NHFT
The first time I heard a place I frequent wasn't appreciative of my business and was bitching about it - I'm done with them. Can't find a new place yet guys?
What the hell are you talking about?
I have never "bitched" about anyone's business, and have frequently both online and offline expressed immense gratitude for the business my customers give me. Your statement is based on a lie.
It is that gratitude, as well as my support for small government causes, that leads me to frequently do things that no other business would do. Just this afternoon, I made my back room available for an NHLA meeting, with absolutely no charge. Normally the heat is off back there during the day - it costs a lot to use these big commercial HVAC units, and I try to save money where I can. Turning on the heat back there for meetings like these essentially guarantee I'll lose money, but I do it because I support the NHLA's efforts and I try to be as accommodating as possible to my customers.
Frankly, I'm getting a little sick of the outright lies and accusations being thrown around on this board. I've only banned one person, nearly a year ago, but Sandy claims she's lost count. Hubbard insists that I "bitch" about receiving business, when I can point to posts in which I express gratitude. Barsky claims that my server stole from him, and only backed off that statement when I posted proof to the contrary in the form of a signed credit card slip. A few people said they received bad service, but absolutely no one has complained to me about it in person or via email.
Instead, they choose to come here and post these things on a forum, without giving me the opportunity to correct any problems. In so doing, they cause harm to my business. This is the business that closed to the public on a Red Sox playoff night so that Sandy could hold a fundraiser for the LPNH, that offered free meeting space for Bob Barr and Ron Paul and the NHLA, that essentially donates food and beverage to help pro-liberty candidates raise money for their campaigns. We provide quality food and beverages at the very best prices in town. And I'm the kind of owner who addresses every single problem brought to my attention.
Every single one. No one can ever claim they talked to me about a problem without me bending over backwards to fix it.
But rather than give me the opportunity a few people decide to come here and bash me and my business. And I take it personally because I've poured my life and soul into this enterprise. I'm here over 100 hours a week to ensure it runs smoothly.
Here's the deal: come in, and I'll thank you for your business. If there's any problem, from the service to the food to the atmosphere, let me know and I will address it post-haste.
Or don't come in. That's always your right and choice as a consumer. But coming in time and time again, and then posting lies and half-truths on forums such as this one instead of giving me the chance to fix any problems - real or imagined (Barsky, Sandy, Hubbard, et al) - that's simply reprehensible.
And I cannot respect people who post these sorts of lies publicly. They amount to libel, and they cause very real damage to a business and a group of people that actively supports the very precepts in which members of this board are supposed to believe.
Quote from: Rearden on December 13, 2008, 07:09 PM NHFT
Quote from: Hubbard on December 13, 2008, 06:00 PM NHFT
The first time I heard a place I frequent wasn't appreciative of my business and was bitching about it - I'm done with them. Can't find a new place yet guys?
What the hell are you talking about?
I have never "bitched" about anyone's business, and have frequently both online and offline expressed immense gratitude for the business my customers give me. Your statement is based on a lie.
It is that gratitude, as well as my support for small government causes, that leads me to frequently do things that no other business would do. Just this afternoon, I made my back room available for an NHLA meeting, with absolutely no charge. Normally the heat is off back there during the day - it costs a lot to use these big commercial HVAC units, and I try to save money where I can. Turning on the heat back there for meetings like these essentially guarantee I'll lose money, but I do it because I support the NHLA's efforts and I try to be as accommodating as possible to my customers.
Frankly, I'm getting a little sick of the outright lies and accusations being thrown around on this board. I've only banned one person, nearly a year ago, but Sandy claims she's lost count. Hubbard insists that I "bitch" about receiving business, when I can point to posts in which I express gratitude. Barsky claims that my server stole from him, and only backed off that statement when I posted proof to the contrary in the form of a signed credit card slip. A few people said they received bad service, but absolutely no one has complained to me about it in person or via email.
Instead, they choose to come here and post these things on a forum, without giving me the opportunity to correct any problems. In so doing, they cause harm to my business. This is the business that closed to the public on a Red Sox playoff night so that Sandy could hold a fundraiser for the LPNH, that offered free meeting space for Bob Barr and Ron Paul and the NHLA, that essentially donates food and beverage to help pro-liberty candidates raise money for their campaigns. We provide quality food and beverages at the very best prices in town. And I'm the kind of owner who addresses every single problem brought to my attention.
Every single one. No one can ever claim they talked to me about a problem without me bending over backwards to fix it.
But rather than give me the opportunity a few people decide to come here and bash me and my business. And I take it personally because I've poured my life and soul into this enterprise. I'm here over 100 hours a week to ensure it runs smoothly.
Here's the deal: come in, and I'll thank you for your business. If there's any problem, from the service to the food to the atmosphere, let me know and I will address it post-haste.
Or don't come in. That's always your right and choice as a consumer. But coming in time and time again, and then posting lies and half-truths on forums such as this one instead of giving me the chance to fix any problems - real or imagined (Barsky, Sandy, Hubbard, et al) - that's simply reprehensible.
And I cannot respect people who post these sorts of lies publicly. They amount to libel, and they cause very real damage to a business and a group of people that actively supports the very precepts in which members of this board are supposed to believe.
My statement was based on what I was reading here. And was a general statement that you probably agree with. If the above facts aren't facts at all I apologize. I've never been to, I'm assuming, your place.
Hubbard,
I agree that the owner of a business who doesn't appreciate his customers doesn't deserve patronage.
I'm sorry if my statement seemed a bit high-strung, but it's hard to not take this personally. Those same posts that led you to believe that I didn't appreciate my customers are the same posts that led to me being unhappy and more than a little worked up. They were wrong, and if you ever come to my business - and I hope you do - you will see that with your own eyes.
Thanks.
Rearden, I plan to. Just haven't had the opportunity.
I had the pleasure of spending an afternoon / evening at Murphy's two weeks ago. I found it to be quite delightful. Had a comfy chair by the fire as well as power and internet for my computer. Keith was entirely accommodating even though no one had let him know that 60 extra people would be descending upon his establishment on an otherwise packed night. The service was prompt, considering people were packed in like sardines. They also have enough of a beer selection that even the more discriminate consumer should be able to find one or two flavors to their liking. Now, if only they would get Konkord Kombat Ale on tap...