Not sure how to begin, but here goes. My friend arrived before me she drove N. from Springs. I…read moredrove S. from Denver, a pleasant drive for both of us, somewhat in the middle. She was given a table near the S. patio exit right next to the double doors (Literally the table straddled one of the patio doors). As I pulled into the parking lot of Savina exactly 4: 20, I called my friend to let her know I'd arrived. She stated she would meet me outside. As my friend exited to meet me in the parking lot, she told both a server and the Host at the front desk that she would return shortly.
Upon re-entering there were approximately 3 or 4 employees at the front host desk. NOT one of them acknowledged our entering, NO 'hello, can we help you, or friendly smile', although, they chatted amongst themselves as they kept their eyes on their respective cell phones.
As we made ourselves back to our table the view was breathtaking. Both my friend and I proceeded outside to wonder the 360-degree view, spectacular. Finally, we returned to the table after a few pics, within a 10min window of having met me out front.
I didn't really pay attention to the location of our table except when I tried to squeeze myself between the other table where two elderly women were seated. I excused myself as I attempted to get comfortable, to my surprise they acknowledge, and yet ignored me. I politely mentioned how crowded it was for me to accommodate myself. My plea fell on DEAF ears as they snubbed me (in their defense -both were blue haired possibly hard of hearing or just rude).
Therefore, I sat on the same side of the rectangular table, as I could not sit comfortably opposite my girl.
As we sipped our water several servers passed us, we had a few chips and salsa at the table while sitting patiently. Within the 5-7 minutes, I attempted to get anyone of the servers' attention, the dining-area was steady but not crazy. At which I again wondered why we were seated in such a poor spot (both our chairs clearly blocked the pathway to the outside) somewhat an emergency or fire hazard. I scanned the dining area, and more than half the dining patio tables were empty. I finally got a young waiter's attention and asked if we could order a drink or move to another spot, perhaps the bar itself. As I spoke a young lady-server approached. She stated that she was our server, then stated "I thought you left", I didn't think you were coming back". Not offering to serve us, but surprised we were back- 'NO apology or 'what may I bring or help you with?' I asked again, would it be possible to get another table, or better yet sit at the bar. We were told that the inside bar was available but NO offer to help accomodate. I offered to pay for the chips and salsa... Young lady stated, NO Charge, I placed $5.00 on the table anyhow. As we made our way toward the bar, the server did not offer to help carry our water, chips or salsa to the table. By this time, it was closer to 5pm and the actual bar was crowded with no seats available... Yet again NO server to offer us another place to be seated. I would've thought she would have followed us to help or communicate our predicament to the host or other servers in the bar area.
Frustrated, thirsty and hungry, we found ourselves in the parking lot deciding where else we might choose to dine.
I'm writing this to express just how indifferent the staff was upon entering and leaving your establishment. I say this because as we walked out... AGAIN, NOT a single host, waiter employee at the front desk said, 'goodbye, thank you, see you soon', how was everything?'
I currently work for HCA medical in Englewood and was given the recommendation to dine here by my director. I've worked in both food and beverage and the Hospitality field for over 40 years, currently as a hospital administrator.
I was truly looking forward to seeing my friend and enjoying my Birthday meal. The few chips and bit of salsa were tasty. Hell, you can get good chips and salsa at 90 percent of the Spanish or Mexican restaurants in Colorado!
Yet, POOR service is what shuts down 90 percent of restaurants.
Not sure I will give Savina in Castle Pines a second chance, possibly
give Denver's location a try.
PS. I returned to my vehicle having left it in the parking lot... I needed the men's bathroom; I purposely went into Savina, finding NO one at the front desk. However, on my way out from using the facilities, one of the young hosts called out 'goodbye'. This 2 hours after dining at Los Dos Potrillos up the road. (Which was Wonderful, service, food and tequila)!
Respectfully,
Joey A Shook
Prior Chef-Owner Sierra Fine Catering
Admin Assistant-HCA Medical
