Pathetic service: Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga, Durban

Deep dissatisfaction with the service I received during my recent stay at the Hilton Garden Inn on Umhlanga Ridge, Durban. I had booked accommodation that included both breakfast and dinner. On the first evening of my stay, I went to the restaurant for dinner and was assisted—very poorly—by three different staff members: a lady in black, an Indian gentleman in a grey shirt, and a lady in a white shirt. Each of them took my order at different times, which was confusing and unprofessional. The lady in the white shirt eventually took my drink order but seemed unsure of the available options. Despite taking the menu from me, she never returned with the drink. I arrived at the restaurant at 18:50 and only received my food at 19:52—over an hour later. Still, no drink was served. When I asked about it, she claimed I never ordered a drink. I reminded her that she had taken the menu from me after I placed the order, and she simply said she forgot. This is unacceptable. To make matters worse, the restaurant was full of Kaizer Chiefs players, and it was clear that all the attention was focused on them. I felt completely ignored. No one came to check on me after serving the food, no one asked if the meal was okay, and no one offered to assist further. I had to eat a hot lamb curry without a drink, and I sat there for a while after eating—still no one came to check on me. Eventually, I had to go to reception myself and request that dinner be removed from my booking. I would rather spend my money somewhere I am valued and respected as a guest. This was a truly disappointing experience, and I will not be recommending this hotel to anyone.