Spinato's Pizzeria and Family Kitchen — Restaurant in Tempe

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to express my profound disappointment and distress over the treatment my family and I received at Spinato's Pizza, Tempe location, managed by Aaron, on Saturday, February 17th, between approximately 3:50 to 4:30PM.

Upon entering your establishment, we were immediately confronted by Aaron, who aggressively informed us that dogs were not permitted inside. I explained that Diesel, my service dog, is not only legally allowed but essential for my well-being, especially since I am a person living with an invisible disability. Despite not wearing his usual vest due to recent surgery, I showed Aaron the badge that Diesel is a service dog, adhering to the guidelines that do not mandate a vest for service dogs.

After this initial confrontation, we were informed by a courteous front desk staff member that seating us would not be an issue. However, Aaron interjected, falsely claiming that walk-ins were not being accepted at the time, despite our observation of other walk-in guests being accommodated before and after us. Eventually, we were grudgingly allowed to stay.

As we settled and ordered food, Diesel, sitting quietly under my legs, was given a few pieces of chicken—a harmless act that prompted Aaron to confront us once again, inappropriately accusing me of behavior that was neither disruptive nor against any policy. Furthermore, when my infant accidentally dropped food, Diesel quietly cleaned it up without causing any disturbance or approaching other customers.

Regrettably, Aaron's behavior escalated to asking us to leave the restaurant, a demand made in a manner that was not only humiliating but also deeply insensitive to my condition. As a veteran diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Diesel's presence is not a preference but a necessity, recommended by my physician. Never in my extensive experience of frequenting various establishments with Diesel have I encountered such appalling and discriminatory treatment.

This incident is not merely about a misunderstanding regarding service animals; it reflects a grave lack of awareness and respect for individuals with disabilities. Aaron's actions and demeanor towards my family and me were not only unprofessional but also in direct violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

As a business owner myself and a veteran, I understand the importance of inclusivity, respect, and understanding—principles that were grossly neglected during our visit. Given the severity of this incident, I am compelled to file an ADA complaint, consider media involvement to highlight this discrimination, and possibly seek legal counsel to ensure such an unfortunate situation does not recur, to anyone, under your establishment's oversight.

I urge you to address this matter with the seriousness it deserves, including educating your management and staff about the ADA and the rights of individuals with service animals. Actions like Aaron's not only tarnish your establishment's reputation but also inflict unnecessary distress on customers who deserve respect and understanding.

I look forward to your prompt response and action on this...

UPDATE 2: Gave them another chance, and they did a great job. Delivery was prompt and couterous as always, and the pizza was wonderful (even with the olives)!

UPDATE 1: Spinatos reached out and apologized about the situation. The manager was quite pleasant and offered a refund for the salad. I updated the rating and will hopefully return to update it again with 5 stars after a future order. Thanks so much!

I usually love this place. They have been the only pizza place I've ordered from since moving to AZ in November 2023. However, tonight sadly changed it. I strayed away from my typical pizza order and bought a Greek salad. The second I opened the salad, I knew from the putrid smell of the olives that they were rancid. It was impossible to get past it.

Now I absolutely love the pizzas, and the delivery guys are some of the sweetest people I've met out here. However, this is a sad example of how management can mess up a good thing. When I called and explained what happened, the manager was very apologetic. However, the two options I was given to rectify the issue were abysmal, to say the least. The first was to have the salad remade and then go pick it up, in lieu of having it redelivered. This was because the "delivery guys were extremely busy" and couldn't assist. That option was immediately shot down. Why would I want to inconvenience myself with driving to them to pick up another salad they not only previously botched but could've made me sick? The second option was to get a credit on a future order. Again, your mismanagement led to rancid ingredients ending up in a customer's dish - that you SOLD to them. A credit should have accompanied a literal refund. To make matters worse, I wouldn't have this credit by way of a gift card or in an online account - I would have to call them. Again, more inconvenience for the sake of maintaining hold on an order they botched. I wanted the call to end, so I took the credit, but I definitely think it's high time I look elsewhere for another...

Reservation are preferred here but if there are openings they are happy to find a seat for you. This place is fancy! Everywhere you look there are beautiful elements of décor that delight the eyes and senses. There is a wonderful variety of live plants that my husband and myself loved identifying. One wall was filled with battery operated candles. The effect is enchanting but I imagine quite a work out for employees to on and off everyday.

From the gold stools up front to the green backed booth seats in the back this place is fun. You are walked through the sports bar area to the back restaurant seating. The bar has 2 TV screens and a beautiful arrangement of bottles. Over head is dark wooden box pattern with track lighting in the center of each box. The counter has clear barriers separating patrons sitting at the counter top of the bar. The main room has 3 fantastic chandeliers whose effect is magnified at night by the reflection of the movable windowed wall. The wood and plants make this place fee comfortable. Out on the patio is more seating with huge box heaters that make outdoor winter dining very pleasant. There is a giant 10 seater table around the corner and is also surrounded by plants. I can imagine large family gatherings here. There is also a shortcut to the parking lot from the patio if you don't want to go past the bar.

The food was amazing as well, you can tell they use fresh ingredients. We had the lemonade and that was perfect! Not too sour and not sicky sweat. It's the perfect lemonade.

Most importantly they have GILATO!

There is special parking reserved for pick up orders. and Handicap parking...