Soca Vegan Kitchen — Restaurant in Augusta

I've been so excited to try this establishment ever since they announced they were opening a brick and mortar location. I finally tried it two days ago and the food was PERFECT. Like most people, I eat the same dish from restaurants I frequent, but I plan on trying something new every time I eat here as everything I ordered was so good (my bf & I ordered double of at least 3 side dishes and had an entree each). Everything is reasonably priced and the portions are small (while priced fair), but I think this is because the case is likely to be that a customer will order an entree and several sides to create a meal. Although there was great food, I couldn't give 5 stars. Ordering is confusing; there's no 'seat yourself' sign but you are to seat yourself. And you are to go up to the counter to order but there's no indication that you are to go up to the counter or where to go (just off to the side somewhere is what most people did). Although this only seemed to be the case until about 5:00, because when a group of 3 came in after we finished our meal they were brought menus by a worker and asked what they'd like to drink, so I'm still not sure exactly how it works. This didn't sway the experience entirely, though, as I was just excited to be there. But walking in and being confused for 10-15 minutes with no greeting or anything doesn't set a great initial experience upon walking into...

Okay, lots to say about Soca. The hours are not accurate. They are changing them because of staffing issues. Call before you go. Regardless, my friends and I were very excited to eat at a new vegan restaurant in Augusta. Once we arrived we were a bit confused if we should sit or order at the counter. This seemed to be a common problem with other customers as well (a simple sign could fix this). Our waitress seemed a bit untrained and impatient. Among other things, she gave the wrong drink and said "sorry this is all you'll get. We're out of the one you ordered". I was surprised at this since all the reviews say the opposite. One couple walked in and sat down for 20 minutes and were not spoken to. Not even greeted! They ended up walking out the door. When our food arrived, it was cold. Thankfully they did heat it up when asked. The portions were kinda small for the price. The best thing Soca has going for it is the flavor, presentation and vibes.

I get that this place just opened, but in order for this restaurant to survive, they are going to need to step up their game fast. I want to see this place succeed. As a vegan, I NEED this...

My review of this place is based on the service. My husband and I were very excited to visit. We made it a day date. We arrived on the 2nd day of their opening. The atmosphere was fun, great music and colorful space. albeit the space is tight. We placed our order and according to the receipt and the cashier, our wait would be 25 minutes. After waiting an HOUR, we inquired about our food and was not given any specific detail on the delay. I wonder if anyone would have said anything to us, if we didn't inquire. We ended up requesting a refund because we were uncertain of when our order would be ready. We had a child to pick up and I had to return to work. Needless to say, I was furious and very disappointed. We really wanted to try the food. We were not given an apology, explanation, NOTHING! This to me is a big deal, it was handled unprofessionally. I am not sure if I will return again.. Maybe I'll wait it out six months, hopefully by then, they will be organized, well-staffed and more...