Fat Butcher Arrogance

I recently had a disappointing experience with The Fat Butcher in Stellenbosch, which is surprising given its high ratings and positive reviews.

It all started when I called to make a reservation for two for dinner. The person who answered was very short, sharply stating they only had space before 4pm and after 9pm. I said thank you and I would get back to them. When I called back, I phoned three times with no answer.

Determined to secure a table, my wife and I decided to visit the restaurant in person, despite the pouring rain. Upon arrival, we were met with further frustration. A lady in a pink chef’s outfit walked past us without greeting, busy taking pictures of ducklings and chatting with her friend while we stood outside waiting for assistance. Despite three or four staff members, including the manager, looking at us from inside the restaurant, no one bothered to attend to us. A sense of arrogance was felt by both my wife and I.

For a restaurant with such a stellar reputation, the lack of basic customer service was appalling. It seems they've forgotten that the most important aspect of a restaurant is its customers. I am very disappointed and hope they address these issues to improve their service.