801 Chophouse — Restaurant in Minneapolis

Initially, going to the restaurant, I thought I was going to have a fine experience there with my significant other. I was proven wrong. When we got there our experience was not great. The host spoke kindly, but the mannerism of the host felt passive aggressive. They asked every one else if they wanted their coats hung up, but never came around to ask us even though we are also standing around next to the other customers. When we were being seated, I notice that some booths were empty and they chose to seat us at tables where there wasn't any guest sitting at. To give benefit of the doubt, I am unsure if I am understanding incorrectly, but it felt like we were put in a lower priority as we were seated at a table (we were the only guest at a table). While others who were there and came afterwards were seated in a booth. With that said it left a bitter taste in my mouth.

Further more, after we were seated. I wasn't sure if they were intentionally pacing to seat a relaxed mood or we were simply being neglected because guest that were seated after us received water and their complementary bread immediately. While for us we didn't get our waters filled until they did and did not get our complementary bread until we ordered our food. Additionally, our sever spoke kindly and politely, but his demeanor was very passive aggressive. When attempting to start a conversation/banter, were were left with an awkward response. When we were eating, he came along and asked us about how our meal was going. He responded awkwardly and left. Something that made me even more displeased was that they came to only refill my SO water once, but not mine. They never came back to check on us or came to see if we needed more water during our meal. I found that very disrespectful as I seen them walking around asking other customers. Also, our sever was at another table joshing around with them. I am unsure if they were friends or family, but I still find it disrespectful towards us because we are paying guest.

Overall, our bill was almost $400. We thought that we would've been receiving service that reflected the amount that was being paid for, but unfortunately that wasn't the case. The food was great overall, but the experience ruined it all. Had we known this, we would've gone somewhere else were the service matched the price that...

I and members of my doctoral cohort visited the restaurant (801 Fish) on Saturday, February 3, 2024, and sadly, there was just terrible service from the start. Upon entry, the host and hostess were rude and dismissive. Did not help me or my friend to our table/seat at all and acted as if we were bothering them. Not only did they call me before my reservation to confirm my arrival, which I found ironic because technically that only occurs when the restaurant is packed. I got there and for the restaurant to have 3 tables seated, the customer service bestowed upon us was very POOR. We (party of 4) were waited on as an afterthought which was reflected in our tip and had nothing to do with us being POC. Just want to dispel that narrative before it is assumed or perpetuated further. While the scallops and steak were good, I was very disappointed in the starters/appetizers (e.g. crab cakes and lobster bisque) especially considering the price. Because I valeted my car I expected to be notified if and when the valet left, however, it was a shock to me that I was never notified. They left my vehicle in the front and no one told me that my keys were at the bar… We had to inquire about the keys, now granted again there are only about 2 tables at this time so no excuse. The keys were given to my friend/classmate after repeatedly asking for them while I was standing outside looking for the gentleman. Again, with maybe two tables seated by night end, there was no excuse for such poor service. For the record, I am newer to MN and I only tried this place because of a referral but it was a HORRIBLE experience. Needless to say, I will never return. Furthermore, there seems to be a pattern of disparities in service extended to people of color. As a non-MN native, I am not understanding of passive-aggressive racism, prejudice, stereotypes, etc. I only hope this complaint is received humbly. And a choice is made to DO...

I was initially hesitant to write this review, but even two weeks later, I can’t seem to shake off the bad taste my experience left. I’ve been to 801 Chophouse twice, and both visits were drastically different experiences.

First Visit: The first time was shortly after they reopened from COVID, and my family and I had the entire restaurant nearly to ourselves. The server was exceptionally friendly and attentive, and the food was outstanding—hands down one of the best steaks I’ve ever had. It was such a memorable experience that it actually helped ease my concern about dining out.

Second Visit: Wanting to recreate that wonderful experience, I took a friend there for the holidays. Unfortunately, it turned out to be one of the biggest dining mistakes I’ve made. Our waitress’s attitude ruined our evening. Despite our being polite and respectful, she was passive-aggressive and acted as though we weren’t worth her time. The food also fell far short of expectations: the steak was charred and tasted old. The only positives were the manager’s professionalism and the fantastic music in the restaurant.

My friend and I are both 24, and I tend to look younger than that. I strongly suspect the poor treatment might have been due to our age. What’s frustrating is that I’m a CPA at a reputable firm nearby; I work hard for my money, and I spent $357 on a meal where I was treated disrespectfully. If I had known in advance, I would have gone elsewhere for a better experience and better value.

It’s disappointing to be treated so poorly as a paying customer, and I can't understand why a waitress would behave so unprofessionally without any provocation. If I treated my own clients this way, I would be fired on the spot. I will not be returning to 801 Chophouse, and I sincerely hope it can provide a more consistent and respectful dining experience...