Pour Boy - Somerset — Restaurant in Ottawa

The Pourboy's Disastrous Experience: Rude Server and Slow Service Ruin the Visit

My recent visit to The Pourboy was nothing short of a nightmare. Our server, Sidra, not only displayed a shockingly rude demeanor but also took it upon herself to play the role of an authority figure, intentionally cutting us off after just two single shots of tequila within a span of two hours. Her slow service only added fuel to the fire. It's baffling that someone who claims to have received her smart serve certification lacks the basic knowledge of properly serving quantities and seeking guidance from superiors when unsure.

To make matters worse, Sidra's unprofessional behavior extended to her initial greeting. She approached our table with crossed arms and a sassy attitude, uttering the words, "Can I help you?" This dismissive and unwelcoming manner is not how customers should be greeted, undermining any sense of hospitality.

I strongly recommend that The Pourboy take immediate action to retrain Sidra in customer service and instill in her a positive body language and verbal attitude. It is crucial for servers to understand the importance of treating customers with respect and courtesy, rather than engaging in power trips and displaying a dismissive demeanor.

However, amidst the chaos, I would like to express my gratitude towards another server at The Pourboy. This Caucasian server, slightly larger in body size and sporting a tattoo on her hand, was an oasis of kindness in an otherwise disastrous experience. Her warm and accommodating nature stood in stark contrast to Sidra's behavior, and she deserves recognition for her exceptional customer service.

Furthermore, I must acknowledge the bartenders at The Pourboy for their top-quality beverages. Despite the overall unpleasant experience, the skill and craftsmanship of the bartenders shone through in the flavorful and well-crafted drinks they served.

In summary, The Pourboy's visit was marred by the rude and power-tripping behavior of our server, Sidra. Her intentional cutting off after two shots of tequila within two hours, along with slow service, only added to the disappointment. I strongly urge The Pourboy to retrain Sidra on customer service and emphasize positive body language and verbal communication. I appreciate the kindness displayed by the other server with a larger body size and a tattoo on her hand, as well as the bartenders for their...

Normally I would rate thid place 5 stars. I used to go here a couple times a week when I am back in town, it's close by from where I normally stay and convenient, like a local watering hole per say haha. I am quiet and generally keep to myself, unless a patrion starts up a conversation. I was there last May 21 2024, I ordered a second drink and the bartender indicated that she will serve me after 10 min and drink some water as I appeared to be a bit on the typsy side and I appreciate that. I waited the 10 min and in doing that I went out for a cigarette and I decided to leave as a friend texted to meet up. Then I realized I didn't pay the bill, I went back to pay the bill and the bar tender was rather rude about it even though I went back to pay. So I expressed my discontent about the way I was treated and indicated there are people here now in a far worse state than I, I payed the bill gave a good tip and left. I was away for most of the summer and decided to go there last Thursday for a night cap, I haven't been there since last May. A table of people behind me, started yelling many profanities at me in a aggressive manner, I believe one person at this table was a bartender, but not working on this night. I was quiet as usual minding my own business, they appeared to be rather intoxicated based on their actions. The bartender working that night approached me in a rude manner, and indicated I was there before (last May) being aggressive, which I was not I can assure this (check the cameras haha last May 21). I did express my discontent after I was treated in a rude manner. But the bartender this night didnt't give me a chance to explain or provide feedback, she told me to leave and to never come back... Meanwhile the people at this table behind me were acting out in a aggressive confrontational manner towards me. The bartender appeared to base her rude behavior and decisions on very intoxicated peoples actions and perhaps in saying very exaggerated things about and towards me. I felt like I was being discriminated although I am caucasian Irish and Itaian back ground. Perhaps its my age as I am a little older than the age demographic, although there are some people there my age and older, it was a feeling of just being unwanted there for whatever reason... Although I always leave very good tips and a good customer and also from a spending...

I've been here a few times in the past month or so, on date night and with friends. Everything from the service to the food has been great. So far, my hubby and I have tried the udon noodles, the wings, the perogies, the onion rings, sweet potato fries, and the fish and chips and for dessert the ice cream sandwich. Along with Sangria for me and rum cocktails for him. Food and drinks were delicious! The only reason I gave a 4☆ for the atmosphere is that the lighting is a little dim, especially upstairs, but the vibe is fantastic!

Prices are reasonable, and I'd go so far to even say slightly under some other pubs, which have pumped up their prices quite a bit in the last two years. It was a pleasant surprise and our friends remarked on it as well. The menu is varied with vegan/vegetarian options as well.

Parking is a bit dicey as it's Ottawa paid street parking until after 7 p.m., when it becomes free. After a storm, they didn't clear the roads well, so we had to park on/between snowbanks. But that's a city issue , not Pour Boy's, but I just thought I'd mention it. The only downfall to this pub is that it's not accessible. So, for those who are disabled/wheelchair bound , it's a no-go unless someone can help you over the door threshold. If you have reduced mobility, the lower level is fine, but the stairs are a bit steep to get upstairs, plus the bathrooms are also upstairs, so this might end up an issue as well. All in all, it's a great little place, and I'm glad it was recommended to me. It just might be our new go-to place for nights out...