Spolumbo's was one of the first "Calgary" things I learned about when I moved here 6 years ago. Best. Sausage. Ever. I was told.
And their sausages are fantastic. I've tried several varieties, purchased either as part of a meal at local restaurants or from my local supermarket.
But our trip to the flagship deli was completely underwhelming. First of all, $8.50 for a sausage on a bun? With a handful of sliced pickles lazily thrown on the plate/basket with zero enthusiasm from the staff? Sigh. The staff then went on to have a bit of a discussion in front of us as to what story to tell a caller on the phone who was looking for the manager. Kind of awkward.
I think what made me so disappointed in my visit was that it wouldn't take much to make this retail space a cool, happening place with interesting food options...whether it be table service or cafeteria style (as it is now). Instead their little restaurant seems like an after thought, something they dabble in when they aren't making sausages for mass consumption. I'm glad it took me 6 years to try this place out. Had I gone there when I first arrived I probably wouldn't have tried their retail products based on my experience.
My advice to Spolumbo's...make your restaurant space awesome and a destination or just close it before if does more damage to your brand. You can do better.