Gourmet Burger Kitchen (GBK) — Restaurant in London

I recently visited GBK with my wife, and unfortunately, our experience was quite disappointing.

We arrived at the restaurant approximately 30 minutes before the closing time, as displayed on Google Maps. Upon entering, we were greeted by a friendly and welcoming lady who promptly seated us and handed us the menus.

However, our positive expectations were shattered when another employee approached our table and informed us that the restaurant would be closing in just 10 minutes. This sudden change in attitude and tone caught us off guard. Understandably, we considered leaving, given the limited time remaining.

When we expressed our intention to leave, the employee urged us to stay and place our order. Unfortunately, his choice of words left a bitter taste in our mouths. He commented that we should "mind the times" before entering a restaurant. This remark was delivered in a condescending manner, implying that we were at fault for not being more aware of the closing time.

The encounter left us feeling upset and unwelcome. It's disheartening to receive such discourteous treatment, especially after being warmly received initially. The overall lack of professionalism displayed by this employee tarnished the otherwise pleasant atmosphere of the restaurant.

While I cannot comment on the food and service beyond this initial encounter, I believe it's essential for the restaurant management to address these issues. A respectful and accommodating approach towards customers, even during the closing time, would greatly enhance the reputation of the...

I love GBK but this was one of the worst experiences I have ever had in any restaurant. The manager (not the rest of the staff) pointed at a table when we entered, grunted hello, and then ignored us.

My friend explained she had an intolerance to gluten but could handle a little, that she had been to other GBK's before, and new what she could and couldn't eat. The manager then proceeded to patronise and lecture us on what my friend could and could not order, kicking up a fuss about every choice we made. Eventually we got sick of the manager's attitude and left.

I feel sorry for the rest of the staff, I've worked under many horrible, arrogant managers such as her and there is no excuse for their behaviour. Also, they never get any better and the best thing for them is to be sacked. I've also worked in hospitality for many years and would never dream of greeting/speaking to a customer this way.

GBK if you care about your customer service, you should have her reviewed and fired. No wonder there's never anyone in this restaurant. I would rate minus ten...

We've been ruined. We'll never be able to have burgers as good as these back home. One of us had the bacon cheddar, and it was incredible, with thick smokey bacon and delicious cheese. My blue cheese burger was so flavorful and had the perfect sharpness. The thick, skin on fries were perfect with the burgers, and next time we'll branch out and do their sweet potato fries (which I'm sure will be just as amazing). Their onion rings are real onion and very crunchy.

Finally, the staff. Our waitress (I feel bad I never got her name) was the best. Funny, super friendly, she really was the icing on the cake.

It looks like we'll have to keep coming back to London from Chicago just to eat here more - and we'll be eating there at least one more time...