Review Response
Subject: Continuous Misrepresentations and Disregard for Customer Concerns
It is with great disappointment that I find myself compelled to leave another negative review for this Indian restaurant chain.
As I've previously mentioned, my primary concern lies with the false advertising of halal food. I've conducted extensive research and have been informed by US Foods, the foodservice company from which the restaurant sources its products, that their offerings are not compliant with shariah laws that guide halal food preparation. This misinformation is gravely troubling, as it exploits the trust of consumers who rely on accurate information, particularly regarding religious dietary restrictions.
What has further aggravated this issue is the disregard shown by the owner, Utkarsh, towards these concerns. Instead of addressing the issue at hand, he chose to argue and dismiss my valid queries, even making inappropriate remarks about different 'categories' within my religion. This lack of understanding and respect towards religious diversity is unsettling, especially in our multicultural society.
The false claim made by Utkarsh about his faith during our conversation further deepens my distrust. It is revealed that he practices Hinduism, not Islam as he claimed. While everyone has the right to their religious beliefs, using this falsehood to manipulate customers' religious sensibilities is simply unacceptable. This situation paints a picture of a business that prioritizes profits over customer trust and satisfaction.
Unfortunately, the issues do not end with a single location. It has come to my attention that this restaurant chain has multiple locations across New Jersey. The same misleading practices and disrespectful conduct may well extend to these additional locations, thus impacting a wider customer base. It's important for potential customers to be aware of these issues and make informed decisions about where they choose to dine.
In response to my previous review, I received an apology from the owner, but it failed to address the issues raised. Instead, it seemed to deflect the criticism as a simple attempt to "hurt" a small business. This is not about damaging a business. It is about promoting honesty, respect, and integrity in business practices. Until these issues are properly addressed and rectified, I feel it is my duty to inform potential customers about my experiences.
I hope this feedback is taken in the spirit of improvement. All patrons, current and future, deserve transparency, respect, and...
Read moreSubject: Serious Misrepresentation and Disrespectful Conduct
I recently had an extremely disappointing encounter at the Indian restaurant in question, which led me to question the authenticity and integrity of the business as a whole.
My key issue arose with the restaurant's claim that they served halal food. According to my extensive research and following a phone call with US Foods - a foodservice company whose products are prominently used here - I was informed that their products are not compliant with the shariah laws that govern halal food preparation. The false advertising that the restaurant engaged in, is deeply concerning. Consumers trust establishments to provide accurate information, especially when it pertains to religious dietary restrictions, which this restaurant blatantly disregarded. This matter will be reported to the US business consumers, as it's only fair that potential patrons are aware of this deception.
What aggravated this situation was the dismissive and offensive behaviour of the owner, Mr. Utkarsh. Despite my respectful approach in addressing this issue, he decided to argue rather than clarify or apologize. Worse still, he made derogatory remarks about different 'categories' within my religion. Being a born and raised American, I expect a level of respect and understanding about diverse religious beliefs in this multicultural society. Regrettably, I found neither in this instance.
Additionally, it was disconcerting to learn that Mr. Utkarsh falsely claimed to be a Muslim during our conversation. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that he follows Hinduism, which is a different faith altogether. While individuals are free to follow any religion, it is unacceptable to lie about one's faith to manipulate customers and their religious sensibilities. This gross misrepresentation is indicative of dishonest practices that put profits above customer trust and satisfaction.
In the end, after Utkarsh's disrespectful laughter over the phone, I regrettably resorted to strong language, but this was a response to his consistent disrespect.
I urge potential customers to consider these issues seriously before choosing to dine here. I also hope that this feedback prompts the necessary changes in the way this establishment conducts business, respects its customers' religious beliefs, and maintains transparency in its operations. Please note that this review is not a personal attack but a critique of my experience as a customer in hopes of seeing improvement for the benefit of all...
Read moreSaw the ad on Facebook and was intrigued to try this spot because of the Chipotle vibe of the service. I ordered the plater with Chicken tikka and Mint Cucumber Lemonade. My wife ordered the bowl with Malai chicken and Mango lassi.
The Punjabi samosa that came with my combo was on point. Then the flavors started going downhill. The rice was OK, which was topped with very dry and lukewarm chicken tikka. The sauce couldn't rescue that. The malai chicken on the other hand was moist, but lacking the flavor of Indian food. It was like the Halal guys Arab chicken recipe. Again, the sauce couldn't rescue that. A garlic naan came with my order, of which only the edges were soft, the whole middle portion was dry and crunchy, some of you might prefer it that way.
The people who were serving had an attitude of pointing at the sticker on the glass instead of explaining to us like they explained to the Caucasian customers before us. I even told them that "I'm sorry it's my first time, can you tell me the choices". The manager/owner didn't seem so friendly as he was on social media. As he was walking around with a dull face.
We couldn't finish the food, but the mint cucumber lemonade, and mango Lassi rescued the day with some refreshment. The worst situation came after one hour of leaving the store. My wife and I started having heartburn, and we had to resort to Pepto Bismol. This rarely happens to us, the very least time of this occurrence was at an oriental buffet in Charlotte, NC.
I want to request management to check on freshness before serving your food, and please improve on the flavors when calling it indian food. Also want to request staff members to treat all customers equally and do your job of customer service with a smile. Trust me, even after we got sick, I still want you to improve and want people to give you a second chance....
Read more