I finally have to write about the terrible hospitality and restaurant service in Hong Kong. We all got a sense of this, even eating at Asian restaurants in North America. Waiters for the most part are rude and in my own experience, Hong Kong people care a bit less about ambiance and service than most. However, I'm now convinced that one of the main issues is that EVERY WAITER IS YOUR WAITER. do you know what I mean, people? That anyone who walks by you can serve or help you. In theory this is good because someone is always walking by. HOWEVER it means no one has the X on their back or owns your overall dining experience. And in the simplest explanation, people forget things, or never come back! Argh.... i guess no 'tip pooling' and restaurant management getting the fixed 10% service charge does not incent waiters to care as well.
This was precisely the experiences we have had at low end and high end establishments in Hong Kong. For instance, we went to The Square - a fairly high end Michelin star rated restaurant in Exchange Tower area. Same issue - every waiter forgot or tried to help then never came back. Today, had lunch with Jean Pierre and Stephen at IFC Cafe Costa (patio view of harbour, inside Lane Crawford). Same issue. Asked 3x for butter, then they screwed up our order so often. Also, for consistency, at Sevva outdoor patio, same issue.
Given the high price tags and fabulous venues, you would think a bit of "Service 101" is taught. I guess not! In some cases the happy (or at least efficient) waiters at Tsui Wah or Dai Pai Dong restaurants is more ROI on our time and expectations!
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