Poor Service at the Outback Steakhouse Monroeville, Pennsylvania

One evening my girlfriend called and wanted to meet at the Outback Steakhouse for dinner. She arrived at the Monroeville Pennsylvania location ahead of me, so she went and got a table for her, her daughter and I. Upon my arrival I was informed that a waiter, not our waiter but one randomly walking past, felt it was necessary to stop and tell my girlfriend if I stand her up that he would be happy to sit in for me. While perhaps I'm being too sensitive, I did not feel this type of comment was appropriate.

My girlfriend of course took this as a compliment, although had a waitress said the same to me I know exactly what her opinion would have been, and would not tell me which waiter it was so I could share my displeasure with his actions and unprofessional-ism. I then threatened to go to the manager which she then told me she would leave right now if I did. Before the appetizer even arrived we had come to a heated argument about the situation at which time I walked out and left the restaurant nearly ending our relationship.

I have received no e-mail reply from the Outback at the time of writing this article so I take it they condone the actions of the waiter and feel their staff should be making comments of this nature to paying customers. While my girlfriend and I were able to reconcile our differences and I have asked she not put a waiter above my feelings on matters such as this, I will never go to the Outback again.

A tip for employees of a service industry such as this, you should not be making a pass at customers at all. It is even more unforgivable if you know they have a significant other. If you feel you must make a comment to someone give a compliment such as I like your hair, not "If your date stands you up I'd be happy to take his place". The customer pays your salary, you must remember this first and foremost.

The Texas Roadhouse will be getting all of my business from now on when I need a good steak. As a side note for them, you can get many of their meats cut fresh to your specifications, I asked for a 32 oz steak which the menu only listed up to 16 oz and loved it. When I found out you could do this it was like an early Christmas present for me.