5 stars for Jefferson (our waiter) and the culinary team, zero stars for the host's hospitality solecism. We won't be back, and neither will our friends and family.

My wife and I were beyond excited for our 5pm reservation at Orofino on December 1st. We'd heard rave reviews and couldn't wait to experience downtown Fredericksburg's culinary gem firsthand. We even had the pleasure of celebrating our engagement at Ristorante Renato, another Fredericksburg favorite.

Running a bit late, we called 10-15 minutes ahead to apologize and see if they needed to reschedule. The host nonchalantly assured us, "No worries, the next reservation isn't until 6:15pm." Relief washed over us, replaced by a nagging suspicion that morphed into full-blown anxiety as the evening progressed.

Upon arrival, we thanked the host for his understanding and keeping our table. He "corrected" himself, saying the next reservation was actually at 6:30pm, giving us "plenty of time." This double-talk only amplified our unease.

Jefferson, our waiter, was a saving grace. His genuine warmth, professionalism, and attentiveness were top-notch. We commended him profusely. The food was equally impressive – the Ravioli Lombardi, Pizza Tropea, side Mistacanza, and Tiramisu were all divine, prompting us to leave a generous 40% tip.

Then came the bad.

The same host who assured us twice over the phone and upon arrival that we had ample time, proceeded to haunt our table (tucked away in the back, mind you) at precisely 6:00pm and 6:15pm. Each reminder, dripping with forced cheer, felt like a passive-aggressive nudge towards the exit.

I understand reservations and capacity. I even respect late reservation cancellations. But being made to feel like my hard-earned leisure has a timer attached, dictated by a two-person party we never met, is unacceptable. Time management is the restaurant's responsibility, not the burden of the paying customers.

This blatant disregard for our dining experience, coupled with the host's disingenuous demeanor, completely overshadowed the stellar service and food. Orofino, you just lost two potential loyal customers (and advocates).