I very rarely write reviews, but I feel compelled to share this experience because it left me feeling genuinely upset and humiliated.
My daughter and I travelled a long distance after seeing your advertisements stating that small pets are welcome in the bar area. We brought our small pedigree miniature Bichon, who I was carrying in my arms when we arrived.
There was an unreserved table for two available inside, but we were told we had to sit outside. When I politely asked why we couldn't sit at the empty table, the manager snapped at us in front of other customers and said, "If you want to sit there, you need to order now," while handing us the menu. There were a number of people behind us waiting and others in the bar listening, which made the whole situation very embarrassing.
As I started to read the menu, the manager then changed her mind and told us we could only order soup or chowder. We were no longer allowed to order anything else. I simply couldn't understand why we were being treated differently when there was an available table and your venue advertises that small pets are welcome in the bar.
What upset me most wasn't just that we couldn't have a meal--it was the way we were made to feel. We had travelled a considerable distance in good faith, expecting a warm welcome, only to leave feeling embarrassed, singled out and unwelcome.
As a dog owner, I find it deeply disappointing that genuinely pet-friendly hospitality is still so difficult to find in Ireland. Our dogs are part of our families. We don't expect special treatment--just honesty in advertising and to be treated with the same courtesy and respect as any other customer.
We left without eating, feeling hurt and ashamed. I hope this review encourages a more compassionate approach towards customers who travel with well-behaved pets. read more