BrewDog Short North — Restaurant in Columbus

After doing a search for places to eat in the area, we decided upon BrewDog. Who wouldn't want an Elvis Juice with a nice sandwich? Even though they had empty tables, there was a half-hour wait, no big deal. There were other places within walking distance for killing time. After being seated, we asked for menus and explained we were planning to order dinner. Our waitress came over and took a few drink orders, then another lady named Meredith came over to "explain to us" how things work with the food. Meredith explained to us that they do serve food and it's in the same building, but it's a different business. However, they could place our order for us. She made it seem like she was doing us a favor by taking our food orders. We ended up walking over to the food window to order our food. There was one gentleman making the food in the back, but nobody working the counter. Meredith came over and said, "Even though it's not our business, I can take the food order for you." We had four couples, so we each ordered individually, myself ordering last. The first person who ordered wanted to pay with cash, but she was rudely informed it was plastic only. Several of us attempted to order sandwiches using the number next to the sandwich. Meredith explained to us that she didn't know the sandwich numbering system, so we needed to order by the sandwich name. It was my turn to order and I mistakenly tried to order sandwiches corresponding to the number next to them and she again explained to me that she didn't know the numbers. I read off the order again using the sandwich names. After she placed my order and I was preparing to pay, her POS system turned off. The gentleman in the back making food came out to help, but it would not power on. Meredith seemed disgusted, but brought over a handheld POS system, retook my order and I was able to swipe my card to pay. Upon returning to my table, I explained to my party that I just experienced the worst customer service of my life. Apparently, Meredith overheard my comment to my group and triggered an emotional response. She hastily asked me in a loud manner what was so bad about my customer service experience. It was obvious there was no reasoning with her because she was insulted and emotional. We all sat down to finish our drinks and Meredith explained to us that she was going to expedite our food. Several minutes later, our sandwiches were brought out in brown bags and Meredith informed us that she paid our bar tab and it was best if we left. Several others in our group tried to reason with her, but she would hear none of it. Sadly, our waitress missed out on a very nice tip, we were out of town having a good time and we always tip well. I worked in the food industry many years ago and I know it's a tough business. We go out to eat regularly at five-star restaurants as well as unknown smaller establishments. Never in my life have I been treated as poorly as Meredith treated us. Here are a few hints: 1. The customer is always right. 2. Never make the customer feel like you are inconvenienced in helping them. Avoid phrases like "no problem" or "It's not our business." 3. Learn when not to say anything to avoid escalating a situation, even if your feelings are hurt. 4. Don't advertise pictures of food on internet search sites if you don't serve food. I.E. it's not your business. 5. If you have a numbering system for food or drinks, learn the numbers. If you choose not to learn the numbers, have the decency to turn around and read the sign instead of asking your customers to repeat the order to your liking. 6. If you want to serve food, get the correct ODH license instead of having a separate business in the same building to skate around the licensing. 7. The customer is always right..... They plan to open one of these chains in Cincinnati. Hopefully, they don't make similar mistakes. On a positive note, our sandwiches were amazing, we just had to eat...

Got a parking lot in back, a few arcade games, televisions. Got a few of their seasonals - the best by far was the 'Elfish' - this ale was absolutely fantastic. It tastes of birch and cinnamon with a bitter nack.

I also tried the family dysfunction - at nearly 16%, it smells strong almost of wine. However the taste is dangerously velvetey, chocolate.

Seemed to be some issues with the facility not having ice so they couldn't make cocktails. Also, despite having a few arcade games, they can't give quarters in exchange for bills. Last just a note, noticed the board didn't have the high-abv callout for the family dysfunction.

I thought it a small charming place and I went there when it was pretty chill. Really good...

Brewdog Short North is a great addition to the bar scene in the Short North. The beer selection was solid and I enjoyed the decor and atmosphere of the bar. They were very busy when we went so there was a short line - I appreciate them not packing it in so much that you couldn't move around by letting everyone in immediately. I thought the level of people in the bar was nice for 'capacity'. Their food menu is pretty limited - so beware if you have allergies or come with a picky eater. I ordered a Spicy Pepperoni pizza and it was a nice size and had a very good flavor - I would certainly order it again but am looking forward to trying other options...