As an avid user of Yelp over the years for restaurants and other venues, my experience this past weekend at the Verrado grille has pushed me to write my first review.
I am a semi retired businessman from Los Angeles. My girlfriend and I were here visiting my daughter and her family who have been Verrado residents for the past 7 years.
We have enjoyed the grille numerous times over the years and as a matter of fact held my daughters wedding rehearsal dinner there a few years back.
This past weekend we decided to try the grill for brunch. It was a beautiful day and decided to sit at an outside table.
Our group included an ESA (emotional support animal). Even though Lola is an ESA dog, we still understand that some people may have issues with dogs, so we never insist on sitting inside or where some people might be offended.
We chose a table was way out on the patio with only one other table that was seated at the time way on the other side.
After our waiter took out drink orders we we were approached by a woman who asked if Lola was an ADA dog, I replied that she is an ESA Dog.
She said that they do not allow ESA dogs on their property and only ADA animals were allowed.
When I asked why, she said (with a very matter of fact attitude) "it has to do with food being served"...and that it was their "corporate policy". Whether that be the law or not is for another day...as It is, illegal to ask! I can tell you that this is the first time we have had to leave a restaurant because of being refused service with Lola.
I think the most disturbing part of the experience was the attitude of the asst. manger, a Ms. Fields, who almost seemed to get some pleasure out of chalking up another victory for her and the ousting of another ESA animal!!! As she followed us out the front door as though we were being run out of town!
We proceeded to go over to Tempo where we had a nice breakfast and where "All" dogs are welcome.
Here is my advice to the Corporate office...They need to get involved and work on a complete attitude overhaul at the Grille and pro Shop. There is a sort of arrogance throughout!
I think they are in for an awaking! As of next week, they are not going to be the only game in town...with the opening of The Vic/Victory Club
who as a matter of fact, mention in their literature to bring your Dog...Service animal or not!
The grille at Verrado may survive...but will never flourish especially with management like Ms. Fields!
Hope to return again after things change!