This is about the 5th year in a row that we have had Sunday brunch at the Wrigley Mansion for my Father-in-law's birthday. Every year we have had a great experience....until now.
There were subtle cost savings measures that appeared - things like placing the more expensive food items (shrimp, oysters on the half shell) farther in on the serving table such that it wasn't as easy to reach, especially for senior citizens. The dessert selection was also less and portions appeared to be cut smaller. Not only that, but the price of the brunch went up from roughly the mid 30's a couple of years ago to $45 now.
The most shocking thing however, is that the hostess (Annabelle) actually came over to our table and asked us to hurry up because there were people waiting for tables. And this happened even before we received our bill! It was shocking and frankly, insulting. Even the waitress who witnessed this exchange was visibly embarrassed.
I understand that the economy is tight and you need to generate revenues, but asking customers to leave is not the right way to do it. It's really a shame. The food is decent and the atmosphere and views are incomparable, but to me, customer service is paramount. I'm pretty sure we'll be finding another venue next year.