Canoe

[Sully]

Canoe has been a favorite of my wife and I for many years. As we often do, this past Saturday at about 5:30PM we arrived with a party of five. Upon entering, I noticed the "be patient our service will be substandard" warning posted. I must admit that it hit me the wrong way during these times of high unemployment. The hostess then approached us to escort us to our table when suddenly I heard the person behind the counter announce to us that our table would be available to us until 7:30PM. I must admit that that too hit me the wrong way especially since I had just been warned to expect substandard service. Our server was perfectly fine, our food was absolutely great as always, however....throughout our meal I watched a parade of Canoe people walking past each party in the upper dining room looking at each table as if to say " hurry up!" The table bussing people were literally falling over one another as they removed plates as each guest in our party completed their meal thus subjecting ever increasing pressure on those who had yet to finish eating. As my Mother was the last to finish eating, she did so at a table that was otherwise cleared. As I sympathized with how it must have made her feel, I was also downright embarrassed. All five guests in our party noticed and were adversely impacted by this "hurry up" atmosphere.
As we left the Canoe at exactly 6:52 PM I commented that we still had another 38 minutes ....... then I saw the line of people at the door waiting to sit.
This is the second straight time we have experienced the rush. The Canoe is a great restaurant , however, if this happens a third time I will never return. Is success damaging the Canoe? Has this happened to anyone else at the forum during a peak meal period at the Canoe or elsewhere? Has anyone been given a time period for table availability especially from a restaurant that will not take a reservation? I guess I am feeling like a Canoe II at the North End location or an additional Canoe location closeby may be a better alternative than to abusively manipulate the customers who created the success at the Canoe in the first place.

[Belmont Resident]

Originally Posted by Sully

Canoe has been a favorite of my wife and I for many years. As we often do, this past Saturday at about 5:30PM we arrived with a party of five. Upon entering, I noticed the "be patient our service will be substandard" warning posted. I must admit that it hit me the wrong way during these times of high unemployment. The hostess then approached us to escort us to our table when suddenly I heard the person behind the counter announce to us that our table would be available to us until 7:30PM. I must admit that that too hit me the wrong way especially since I had just been warned to expect substandard service. Our server was perfectly fine, our food was absolutely great as always, however....throughout our meal I watched a parade of Canoe people walking past each party in the upper dining room looking at each table as if to say " hurry up!" The table bussing people were literally falling over one another as they removed plates as each guest in our party completed their meal thus subjecting ever increasing pressure on those who had yet to finish eating. As my Mother was the last to finish eating, she did so at a table that was otherwise cleared. As I sympathized with how it must have made her feel, I was also downright embarrassed. All five guests in our party noticed and were adversely impacted by this "hurry up" atmosphere.
As we left the Canoe at exactly 6:52 PM I commented that we still had another 38 minutes ....... then I saw the line of people at the door waiting to sit.
This is the second straight time we have experienced the rush. The Canoe is a great restaurant , however, if this happens a third time I will never return. Is success damaging the Canoe? Has this happened to anyone else at the forum during a peak meal period at the Canoe or elsewhere? Has anyone been given a time period for table availability especially from a restaurant that will not take a reservation? I guess I am feeling like a Canoe II at the North End location or an additional Canoe location closeby may be a better alternative than to abusively manipulate the customers who created the success at the Canoe in the first place.

Did you inquire as to why the change? You may want to call management and ask about the sign and the service, maybe there is or was a reason for it.

[MDoug]

We miss the old Chequers!

[Gatto Nero]

Sounds to me like they had a private function scheduled for 7:30. Did they clear the other tables around you in the same manner?

[WakeboardMom]

Originally Posted by Sully

when suddenly I heard the person behind the counter announce to us that our table would be available to us until 7:30PM.

however....throughout our meal I watched a parade of Canoe people walking past each party in the upper dining room looking at each table as if to say " hurry up!" The table bussing people were literally falling over one another as they removed plates as each guest in our party completed their meal thus subjecting ever increasing pressure on those who had yet to finish eating.

All five guests in our party noticed and were adversely impacted by this "hurry up" atmosphere.

Has this happened to anyone else at the forum during a peak meal period at the Canoe or elsewhere? Has anyone been given a time period for table availability especially from a restaurant that will not take a reservation?

All of those things that you describe have happened to my brother-in-law and his wife on two (possibly three) separate occasions. The only reason he has allowed that to happen after the first time is that other folks urged him and his wife to join them. I don't think his wife will ever go back.

I have never experienced this, but that's probably because I haven't been to Canoe in years.

But seriously...a sign warning of substandard service? I think I would've turned around at that point and gone somewhere else. That feels like they're telling me they don't want my business.

[jrc]

Wow, I can't imagine entering a business that had a sign warning of substandard service. Can I give a substandard tip?

Canoe is just not worth the drive from Gilford for me. I hear the food is great but tried it only once and so long ago, it may have been pre-canoe. I guess the food makes up for all the weird policies.

[chipj29]

I have never in my life heard a guest being told that their table is only available for a specific amount of time. That would rub me the wrong way, in such a way that I would want to stay at my table for as long as I possibly could, just to see what they would do. That is just plain rude. If I want to have a nice leisurely dinner with a drink or 2 before my meal, dinner, then dessert and possibly an after-dinner drink, that is what I will do.
And the sign warning me of possible sub-standard service? Well that is just crazy. Why would you post that, is business that good that you can possibly turn away business? There are ways you can get around that, such as limit the number of tables a server has. Sure, leaving empty tables may look bad, but it is better than giving sub-standard service.

In a past life I was a restaurant guy for 10+ years, and I have never heard of such a thing. Those guests walking in the door have money to spend, or else they wouldn’t be there. I would want them to spend their money at my restaurant, and would certainly want them coming back to spend more money. And I would most definitely want them to tell their friends to come back and spend money.

To me, some poor business decisions were made at Canoe when you were there. And it looks like it has happened before based on wakeboardmom's post.

Good luck to Canoe, they are going to need it once word gets around.

[AC2717]

someone should speak to the owner, maybe this done by the manager on duty and the owners did not know about it

[KTO]

Originally Posted by Sully

Upon entering, I noticed the "be patient our service will be substandard" warning posted. I must admit that it hit me the wrong way during these times of high unemployment.

I wanted to comment on this because I feel like you are unfairly slandering the restaurant. I remember this sign and it asked customers to be patient so that everyone can receive the best service possible (paraphrasing, of course). Your paraphrasing on that seems a little off, especially since you mentioned that both the food AND service was great.

And yeah, there's a lot of unemployment right now. It's the fall season when seasonal workers return to school or their winter homes. But if you had paid attention this summer, many restaurants and grocery stores had help wanted signs in the window in the middle of July.

Sorry, but I just feel like it's unfair to bash any local company if you don't have the facts to back your argument up.

[Billy Bob]

This is interesting . We went to The Bob House Saturday night and at about 8 pm a group of 6 very upset people walked in . They said they had a reservation at Canoe at 7 pm and at 7:45 they were still in the standing area ! The Bob House was able to get them in the last table they had .

I think the post was right on what happened !


I do get a kick out of the folks that get upset when people on the forum complain about any local food establishments . God forbid you do it on your first post !
However the local food service people are watching the forum and can use the comments to correct issues. Or they can ignore the comments and go the route of the Woodshed .

Six Sigma , continous improvement ( or your gone )

[Charlie T]

Originally Posted by KTO

. I believe I remember this sign and I'm pretty sure it asked customers to be patient so that everyone can receive the best service possible. .

.

Sorry, but I just feel like it's unfair to bash any local company if you don't have the facts to back your argument up.

I'm sorry but you seem to be the one that is a little off. Several people have agreed on the signs contents but you are disputing it with "I believe I remember" and "I"m pretty sure". Those kinds of prefaces are not a good way to win a dispute.

I've myself have been to canoe exactly once, which was enough. To me this is a overpriced venue that justifies it's prices on 'mystique" rather than Great food and service. With all the wonderful places to dine in the lakes region I've never understood why people put up with Canoe.

CT

[KTO]

Originally Posted by Charlie T

I'm sorry but you seem to be the one that is a little off. Several people have agreed on the signs contents but you are disputing it with "I believe I remember" and "I"m pretty sure". Those kinds of prefaces are not a good way to win a dispute.

I've myself have been to canoe exactly once, which was enough. To me this is a overpriced venue that justifies it's prices on 'mystique" rather than Great food and service. With all the wonderful places to dine in the lakes region I've never understood why people put up with Canoe.

CT

Well to make you happy, sir, I have corrected my rhetoric to make it more appealing to what you're looking for. I AM confident of what the sign said, but not of the exact wording. If it makes you happy, I can take a picture if I end up stopping in there any time soon.

Also, when you say "several people have agreed on the signs contents"...I fail to see anyone agreeing. Only Sully (the first poster) confirmed this. Everyone just agreed that the wording is terrible. Nice try.

[MDoug]

I especially miss eating lunch in the big dining room instead of the bar area. The old Chequers always had it open. I do enjoy the Canoe's seafood chowder and would eat it in the parking lot if I had to.

[Sully]

Originally Posted by KTO

I wanted to comment on this because I feel like you are unfairly slandering the restaurant. I remember this sign and it asked customers to be patient so that everyone can receive the best service possible (paraphrasing, of course). Your paraphrasing on that seems a little off, especially since you mentioned that both the food AND service was great.

And yeah, there's a lot of unemployment right now. It's the fall season when seasonal workers return to school or their winter homes. But if you had paid attention this summer, many restaurants and grocery stores had help wanted signs in the window in the middle of July.

Sorry, but I just feel like it's unfair to bash any local company if you don't have the facts to back your argument up.

Excuse me, I guess your world doesn't include room for someone else's honest opinion....................

[KTO]

Originally Posted by Sully

Excuse me, I guess your world doesn't include room for someone else's honest opinion....................

You are incorrect. You didn't like Canoe or felt rushed? That's legitimate. You have a right to that. But putting any business (especially local) in a bad name because of incorrect facts is slander.

I'll be the first to defend your right to your opinion and I completely accept that our opinions might differ. It's when things just aren't true is when I tend to disagree.

[Belmont Resident]

Originally Posted by jrc

Wow, I can't imagine entering a business that had a sign warning of substandard service. Can I give a substandard tip?

Canoe is just not worth the drive from Gilford for me. I hear the food is great but tried it only once and so long ago, it may have been pre-canoe. I guess the food makes up for all the weird policies.

It would not make sense to drive from Gilford with O's in Laconia.

[meredith weekender]

We also went to Canoe last Saturday night with a party of 5. We arrived promptly at 5pm which is opening time. We were greeted immediately and were informed that they had a table for us that was available to us till 7pm. We did not see the sign for subpar service. The food was great. Service was great. We did get to finish and still had 45 minutes to spare. We all thought the time limit was hilarious

[Bear247]

I have been only to Canoe once and my family enjoyed it greatly. We have been trying to get back ever since...

[lovetheforum]

Originally Posted by Charlie T

I'm sorry but you seem to be the one that is a little off. Several people have agreed on the signs contents but you are disputing it with "I believe I remember" and "I"m pretty sure". Those kinds of prefaces are not a good way to win a dispute.

I've myself have been to canoe exactly once, which was enough. To me this is a overpriced venue that justifies it's prices on 'mystique" rather than Great food and service. With all the wonderful places to dine in the lakes region I've never understood why people put up with Canoe.

CT

Charlie

I too saw the sign and it is not what others have "confirmed". See for yourself!

[Belmont Resident]

Originally Posted by Charlie T

I'm sorry but you seem to be the one that is a little off. Several people have agreed on the signs contents but you are disputing it with "I believe I remember" and "I"m pretty sure". Those kinds of prefaces are not a good way to win a dispute.

I've myself have been to canoe exactly once, which was enough. To me this is a overpriced venue that justifies it's prices on 'mystique" rather than Great food and service. With all the wonderful places to dine in the lakes region I've never understood why people put up with Canoe.

CT

Charlie it sounds like your just plain old cheap!!!!
You do not got to the Canoe or O's expecting to spend twenty bucks and walk out with change in your pocket. You go to those places to get quality food and pay good money to get it.
We have been to both but now with O's close by we have no need to go to the Canoe.
We don't go out often but when we decide to go to O's with friends we know it's going to run $50-70 each before we leave.
From our experiences so far it has been well worth the money spent.
It sounds like T-bones might be more of what your looking for.

[WakeboardMom]

Originally Posted by meredith weekender

We also went to Canoe last Saturday night with a party of 5...We did get to finish and still had 45 minutes to spare. We all thought the time limit was hilarious

Your time limit was great. Sully's was not great. Either way, I have never, ever been to restaurant that gave me a time limit upon seating my party. it's just not cool.

[Diver Vince]

Went to O's last Sat evening and notwithstanding that we've had some excellent meals there in the past was in fact disappointed. Personally I don't like their policy of not accepting reservations for a party of 2. I did inquire that in the future if we could call in & put our name on the list, but they would not do that either. When we arrived it was an hour wait. The 14 oz strip steak I ordered was at best at room temp and was a bit overcooked (I ordered med rare). I did tell the waitress that it's a shame that a steakhouse has it's steaks eclipsed by the lobster mac & cheese. Perhaps it was just an off night. We might return, perhaps in Jan- Feb when they do not have the lines. My point, when you charge premium prices; you have to consistently deliver the quality.

[Newbiesaukee]

I don't particularly like Canoe; I want to, but there is usually some little annoyance that turns me off such as the time limit. I have, on occasion, been told when I've made a reservation at a restaurant that there is a time limit and I then choose not to complete the reservation. I would have also been turned off by Canoe's policy of telling you when you arrive.

On the other hand, the sign about the service is honest and well written and this IS the situation up here when many of the servers go back to school. This, by itself, wouldn't have bothered me at all.

On the other hand ( my favorite phrase ), it really would have been annoying to be warned that the service might be slow and then be told there was a time limit. Sort of, "hurry up and eat, but you won't be able to because the service will be slow."

[Belmont Resident]

Originally Posted by Newbiesaukee

I don't particularly like Canoe; I want to, but there is usually some little annoyance that turns me off such as the time limit. I have, on occasion, been told when I've made a reservation at a restaurant that there is a time limit and I then choose not to complete the reservation. I would have also been turned off by Canoe's policy of telling you when you arrive.

On the other hand, the sign about the service is honest and well written and this IS the situation up here when many of the servers go back to school. This, by itself, wouldn't have bothered me at all.

On the other hand ( my favorite phrase ), it really would have been annoying to be warned that the service might be slow and then be told there was a time limit. Sort of, "hurry up and eat, but you won't be able to because the service will be slow."

Newbiesaukee, I do agree it can be annoying but look at the other side of the coin. I'm a painter, if I spend an hour or two chatting that is time that I've wasted and not made money.
I dinning establishment that has the kind of turnaround in a tourist area doesn't make money by having guests sit around chatting while others wait at the door. I've always believed if you want to hang around chatting that is what the bar area is for.
I you were the one standing at the door watching a table of people that had eaten and the table was cleared chat it up how would you feel?
INHO that is one big difference between your chains and a high end eating establishment. These are some of the same complaints people have posted about Sandy Point yet they admit they knew that going in.
One thing we usually do when going out with friends is to time our visit to the end of the rush, this usually leaves us with a somewhat empty restaurant to take our time in. Yes we eat later but!

[Newbiesaukee]

BR..I see your point, but putting a time limit is not normal business practice at a restaurant and is just a bad policy. I agree that some people do overstay at a table, this can be rude...but good restaurant management can account for this.

In my preretirement life as a physician, I both ran on time (mostly) and did not rush patients. It can be done. In your profession, your final result is what is important to you, not how fast you can paint ;and this is the way it should be. If you chat and waste time, it's mostly your loss, not someone else's.

A well-managed restaurant, as a policy, should not impose a time limit.

[jrc]

At one lakeside restuarant, after sitting and chatting for an hour after we ate, the manager offered to buy us a drink in the bar, so they could clear the table for the next guests. We were winding down by then and so we just left.

In Italy once, a coworker and I tried to leave a restaurant after dinner, and a few drinks, almost two hours total. We were scolded by the managment, when you eat there, you have the table for the whole evening.

[Winnisquamguy]

Originally Posted by Diver Vince

We might return, perhaps in Jan- Feb when they do not have the lines.

Coming in during those months on the weekends and you will still have the same trouble.They are a very busy place year round. Awesome food!

[CozbyDog]

I think that the note in the picture and "be patient, our service will be substandard" are very far apart.

[chaseisland]

So, after all this chatter about sitting post dinner for a few drinks and conversation, has anyone given a thought about the servers who would like a new group to increase their income via tips. Or do you tip by time and not dinner cost percentage?

[Newbiesaukee]

I think most people are aware that, in the US, it is rude and inconsiderate to later diners, and perhaps waitstaff, to sit an excessive ( ah, there's the rub) period of time after the meal. But that is the way it goes sometimes in the restaurant business.

I believe the issue in this thread is whether the restaurant should set arbitrary time limits on your meal length.

[Happy Gourmand]

Originally Posted by jrc

At one lakeside restuarant, after sitting and chatting for an hour after we ate, the manager offered to buy us a drink in the bar, so they could clear the table for the next guests. We were winding down by then and so we just left.

In Italy once, a coworker and I tried to leave a restaurant after dinner, and a few drinks, almost two hours total. We were scolded by the managment, when you eat there, you have the table for the whole evening.

Now here's a great solution to Canoe's problem. I will bet that most parties would get the hint and make the table available without taking up the offer.
Does anybody from Canoe read this thread?

[GTO]

Originally Posted by lovetheforum

Charlie

I too saw the sign and it is not what others have "confirmed". See for yourself!

I have read this sign a few times now and still can't find where it says (in quotes mind you) Be patient our service will be sub standard. Sullys interpretation and throwing in his own words (damaging words at that) makes his whole story non believable

[RailroadJoe]

How about if Mitt or Obama stopped for dinner. Would hey have to leave by 7:30 or some other time? I don't do Canoe, can not afford it.

[Newbiesaukee]

Occupy Canoe! After the two hour limit.

(Please note: this is an attempt at nonpartisan humor and we may now return to the thread.)

[Pineedles]

Originally Posted by The Phantom Gourmand

Now here's a great solution to Canoe's problem. I will bet that most parties would get the hint and make the table available without taking up the offer.
Does anybody from Canoe read this thread?

I for one can say they don't. I am not surprised by a policy that limits dining time from this particular chef/owner. It is an ignorance of the trade, as well as a MORE PROFITS, that dictates their policies at Canoe and O's as well. These places are taking advantage of patrons, and they just don't care. I have never heard of any other restaurant limiting a diner's time at the table. I do remember Chinese restaurants in the 70's trying to rush you through the meal because of their experiences in an overcrowded country. Perhaps they are trying to re-instate this failed policy.

[ishoot308]

Originally Posted by Pineedles

I for one can say they don't. I am not surprised by a policy that limits dining time from this particular chef/owner. It is an ignorance of the trade, as well as a MORE PROFITS, that dictates their policies at Canoe and O's as well. These places are taking advantage of patrons, and they just don't care. I have never heard of any other restaurant limiting a diner's time at the table. I do remember Chinese restaurants in the 70's trying to rush you through the meal because of their experiences in an overcrowded country. Perhaps they are trying to re-instate this failed policy.

O's does not have a time limit policy. Any restaurant that has this policy I would never go to. It's ridiculous to say the least!!

Dan

[webmaster]

Originally Posted by Pineedles

I for one can say they don't.

"canoe" is a member of this forum and has replied to threads in the past. It looks like the last time they logged in was in January. In this post they give their personal email address where you can contact them.

[SIKSUKR]

Maybe its just me but if my table is finished dining and I see a waiting line for a table I move right along and find another place (bar) to have conversation if I'm not ready to leave.I would want the same courtesy extended to myself.I bet the same people that complain about being nudged after finishing dinner are the same ones that complain when they are waiting in line that those people are just sitting there while we are standing and waiting.

[Resident 2B]

Originally Posted by SIKSUKR

Maybe its just me but if my table is finished dining and I see a waiting line for a table I move right along and find another place (bar) to have conversation if I'm not ready to leave.I would want the same courtesy extended to myself.I bet the same people that complain about being nudged after finishing dinner are the same ones that complain when they are waiting in line that those people are just sitting there while we are standing and waiting.

I am no Canoe fan, in fact I have not been there for seven years due to past experiences and I never will set foot in the place again. However, what SIKSUKR has suggested is fair and just to all, including the owners, the wait staff and the people waiting for a table.

Often, common sense makes the most sense.

R2B

[secondcurve]

It sounds like the canoe is taking on water. I also have not had the best experiences there and have crossed it off my dining list. Based upon these reviews, it is surprising this place is still busy.

[DesertDweller]

We ate at the Canoe three times over the summer. Each and every time we were told we had until a certain time to finish dinner when we arrived. Each time we had made reservations at least a day in advance. When the hostess said it on our third trip I was expecting it and told her what I thought of their policy. If the food was not as good as it was I would never go there. It is beyond me how someone can operate a restaurant with this type of policy.........

[Rusty]

Looks like they need more staff:

Kitchen Help
Canoe Restaurant Center Harbor , Canoe is seeking Full & Part Time kitchen help. Experienced Line Cooks, Prep Cooks and Pantry. Apply on line or in person, no phone calls please.

Servers
Canoe Restaurant, Center Harbor , Canoe Restaurant in Center Harbor is hiring full time servers with prior experience. Servers may apply on line anytime or in person from the hours of 2-4:30 Th-Sun.

Bartenders
Canoe Restaurant , Center Harbor
Minimum wage plus tips
Full Time Magic Foods Restaurant Group is hiring bartenders for Canoe Restaurant and Tavern. Must be 18 years of age with prior restaurant experience.

http://magicfoodsrestaurantgroup.com/home/work-here/

http://magicfoodsrestaurantgroup.com/

[Newbiesaukee]

If people keep going, then Canoe can have whatever policy it wants. I would choose not to go under these circumstances.

[upthesaukee]

I was going to take my wife to Canoe's sister restaurant O's for her birthday. I was looking at their website and saw you could make reservations on line. Cool...

Reservations before 6 PM can be for any size party, with the default being 2 (two), just the perfect size for her and I. I proceeded to make the reservation for just 2 at 530, this being before 6 PM. I hit the enter or submit button and got a message that said my party size was smaller than the minimum for that restaurant and I could try a different restaurant. Not so cool.

I did this two more times and got the same response, so we took their advise... We went to El Jimador for Mexican and had a great meal and service. I'm sure they appreciated our approximately $80 business.

Sorry O's / Canoe.

[phoenix]

I agree with the posters. the establishment can set any rules they want and people can choose to go or not go. I for one went to Lavinia's three times this summer and enjoyed it all three times. Didn't go to canoe at all

[LIforrelaxin]

Canoe is what it is folks... Now the note about service being slow etc. because staff has left for college is fine with me. Many business in a tourist area have to deal with this. However the question is for the environment that Canoe, and O's are trying to set, should they be having this problem?

You would think that they would have sufficient full time staff to deal with the the restaurant once the summer helps leaves. But you know a restaurant getting caught short staffed is not that uncommon.. Loose 1 or 2 waiters and usually the ship starts listing. It rights itself quickly once replacement crew has been found.

Bottom line is if you like the business give them a chance to recover from the season help leaving.

I am not a fan of Os or Canoe I think they are over priced, and have policy's that I don't agree with.... But I give every business a chance to adjust after their summer helps heads off to college...

[benzguy]

My wife and I have gone to Canoe for a few years and the food and service have always been good and consistent. During the summer the wait times can be pretty long depending on what time you arrive. After reading the past posts, i had to find out for myself. I did read the sign posted and its contents, I couldn't find it anywhere stating what previous posts had mentioned. I asked an older lady working there what all the negative posts recently stemmed from. She stated that a party of 5 or 6 people without a reservation came in to dine at about 5:30pm. The staff at Canoe explained to the party that they were busy and another party had a reservation at 7pm. They would be happy to seat them as long as they were finished by 7pm to allow the party that made a reservation to have their table. This is a far cry from what previous members of this forum have posted. Anyway, with that said we were sat at our table with no time reference ever mentioned. Our server, I think named Emma or Emily?? arrived at our table promptly and took our drink order. We had the calamari for an app. and it was very good. We told our server we didnt want to rush and ordered after each course. My wife had a Caesar salad and i had the wedge. The Caesar could have used some more dressing but it was tasty. I had the house cut prime strip cooked medium rare- just perfect, the wife had the lobster mac n cheese. We shared both to our delight. I did notice they restaurant was filling up pretty quickly throughout our time their. So, before any others want to bash this place without ever going their or not going for 3 years due to a past disappointing experience, try it again. No place is perfect, especially in the lakes region that's for sure.

[Newbiesaukee]

a dead horse, but there are several issues.

As someone did post a photo of the sign, most people seem OK with that. In reality, almost all the restaurants in the area have the same real issue with staff when the season changes.

The main issue seems to be this time limit policy. At least one poster had a reservation himself this year and was still told he had a time limit. Also, as they do not take reservations for 4 or less, then saying that you have to leave at a certain time for a larger group with reservations is a problem. It is not just people walking in and told they can eat but have to leave at a certain time because a party has a later reservation...small parties cannot make a reservation so they always walk in without one.

Most people do not want to bash a restaurant for no reason...but there does seem to be a problem at Canoe. The hostess recollecting one disgruntled and, in her view, unreasonable group is not really a good defense.

Canoe does a lot of things right, otherwise it would not be so popular. And,yes, someone will always find fault with something; but there is a problem.

[Acrossamerica]

There are restaurants all over the world that actually try to insult and make it difficult for the guest to actually attend and enjoy the meal. It would appear that the owners of both of these establishments are trying to do that. And amazingly enough there are a lot of people that enjoy this level of abuse so they can tell their friends that "they" dine at such and such a restaurant even though it is so difficult. Take away the touristas and I doubt there are enough year round folks willing to put up with that attitude but given the location of Canoe, I may be quite wrong in that assumption.

[NickNH]

We must hit Canoe at the right times......we've always been seated promptly, never been told of a time limit and the food has always been great.....granted we don't go often , 2 or 3 times a year and with an elderly mother-in-law we go on the early side. The breadsticks are the best!

[Hermit Cover]

I have heard that the owner of Canoe is a partner in the new purchase of the Woodshed. Maybe someone can confirm...

[Newbiesaukee]

I have heard this is not true, but this is also just a rumor.

[NoBozo]

Originally Posted by Acrossamerica

There are restaurants all over the world that actually try to insult and make it difficult for the guest to actually attend and enjoy the meal. It would appear that the owners of both of these establishments are trying to do that. And amazingly enough there are a lot of people that enjoy this level of abuse so they can tell their friends that "they" dine at such and such a restaurant even though it is so difficult. Take away the touristas and I doubt there are enough year round folks willing to put up with that attitude but given the location of Canoe, I may be quite wrong in that assumption.

The Premier Restaurant for customer abuse is.. Durgin Park in Boston. It is a HOOT..but you better have a sense of humor.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durgin-Park NB

[VitaBene]

Originally Posted by Hermit Cover

I have heard that the owner of Canoe is a partner in the new purchase of the Woodshed. Maybe someone can confirm...

Scott Oulette is part owner of the Woodshed now.

Regarding Canoe and some of the negative comments- it is easily one of the finest restaurants in our area and I feel fortunate to have it and the Woodshed in my neighborhood!

A restaurant will never make everyone happy every time. Let them know your issue and most will try to fix it. I am not happy with all of teh changes at the Woodshed but I am happy with others. In both cases, I gave feedback. Scott is very approachable and explained the whys behind the decisions.

[Acrossamerica]

Originally Posted by NoBozo

The Premier Restaurant for customer abuse is.. Durgin Park in Boston. It is a HOOT..but you better have a sense of humor.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durgin-Park NB

Fully agree.

[AussieDog]

Originally Posted by Acrossamerica

Fully agree.

Went to Durgin Park with friends one time. One of our group finished his meal well before anyone else. He then tried to order dessert, but the waitress cut him off saying he'll get dessert when everyone else had finished eating and not before. She wasn't making anymore trips to our table than needed. Our friend was beside himself. He had never been talked to in such a manner. We assured him this was par for the course so relax and go with it.
The waitress still got a good tip. Always fun a DP.

[hilltopper]

Originally Posted by NickNH

We must hit Canoe at the right times......we've always been seated promptly, never been told of a time limit and the food has always been great.....granted we don't go often , 2 or 3 times a year and with an elderly mother-in-law we go on the early side. The breadsticks are the best!

This has been my experience also...just substitue the elderly mother-in-law with an infant/toddler daughter.

This thread is the first time I've heard of a time limit. Of course if I've been sitting in a restaurant longer than 2 hours, something has gone wrong in the kitchen or with the service.

[sky's]

we recently went to the Canoe and the service was not very good at all, the food was just fair. we have been there several times in the past and have great meals and great service however this last time was not so good. hopefully they were "having a bad day" we will most likely give them another chance?

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by VitaBene

Scott Oulette is part owner of the Woodshed now.

...........................

Scott is very approachable and explained the whys behind the decisions.

I have sent emails back and forth with Scott... And as I said in an early post, we simply just don't see eye to eye on what are good restaurant operating policies. He however has always discussed my grievances with me, and explained why he operates his business the way he does. His business exceed because of his dedication, and that is commendable...

Back to what I said earlier.... this is a tough time of year for any business in a tourist area... The college kids have headed back to school...and business is still busy and won't really settle down until after Columbus day... In short people have to have some patience.

[Belmont Resident]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

I have sent emails back and forth with Scott... And as I said in an early post, we simply just don't see eye to eye on what are good restaurant operating policies. He however has always discussed my grievances with me, and explained why he operates his business the way he does. His business exceed because of his dedication, and that is commendable...

Back to what I said earlier.... this is a tough time of year for any business in a tourist area... The college kids have headed back to school...and business is still busy and won't really settle down until after Columbus day... In short people have to have some patience.

Patience what is that? Road rage, boat rage, bike rage etc., etc..
I honestly believe that very few people know what that word means.
And I do not mean just during tourist season, I mean people in general.

[Rusty]

Scott Ouellette seems to be expanding at a pretty fast pace in NH

These are the ones that I know about:

O Steaks & Seafood Restaurant in Concord

O Steaks & Seafood Restaurant in Laconia

Canoe Restaurant in Center Harbor

Magic Food Productions Catering in Center Harbor

Capital Club in Concord

The North End in Moultonborough

Also from what was said here he is now part owner of the Woodshed Restaurant in Moultonborough


I wish him a lot of luck. Running one successful restaurant is difficult enough in this area, so he sure does have a challenge on his hands. We just might need to have some "patience" until he gets them all running smoothly.

[Irrigation Guy]

Originally Posted by Rusty

Scott Ouellette seems to be expanding at a pretty fast pace in NH

These are the ones that I know about:

O Steaks & Seafood Restaurant in Concord

O Steaks & Seafood Restaurant in Laconia

Canoe Restaurant in Center Harbor

Magic Food Productions Catering in Center Harbor

Capital Club in Concord

Also from what was said here he is now part owner of the Woodshed Restaurant in Moultonborough


I wish him a lot of luck. Running one successful restaurant is difficult enough in this area, so he sure does have a challenge on his hands. We just might need to have some "patience" until he gets them all running smoothly.

The places on the list have been active businesses for a few years in some cases and several or more years for others. I'd imagine the startup challenges are behind him.

[gokart-mozart]

FWIW: Had a great meal there Friday night, excellent service, too. Arrived at 8:45, place was half empty.

Wanted to try the Woodshed, website says 9:30 close on Fridays, but they said they were closing when we arrived at 8:30.

[Somalicat]

Hubby and I had lunch at Canoe a few weeks ago and waited about 10 minutes for a table to become available although well over half of the tables were empty. He liked his lunch but mine was just a little . . . weird--ravioli swimming in a couple of inches of olive oil. Our shared appetizer of calamari was too heavily breaded and a little greasy, to boot. Hubby gave the food a thumbs'-up; me? definitely thumbs-down.

[Belmont Resident]

As mentioned before this forum represents a very small fraction of area residents and tourists which also as mentioned before seems to now be represent the more negative side.
Either way I drove by the canoe twice this weekend as I worked both days in Center Harbor, both times the parking lot didn't have an empty spot in it.

[Lakesrider]

Well I know I'll get bashed for this but here goes.
The Canoe has a big head. I'll go to Mame's any day before the Canoe. I'll go to the Bob House any day before the Canoe. I'll go to the Village Kitchen any day before the Canoe. why? Because the service is awesome at those places. To me half the experience in eating out (and what you are paying for) is the staff and service that you get that says YOU ARE IMPORTANT TO US! If you want to go to a place only to be told you have until a certain time to eat and then get the hell out...Go for it. That just tells me they are interested only in the money and NOT US! You want to throw your hard earned money into a timed event, go to a Laundromat. Because they are just telling you, it's not worth the courtesy of letting you enjoy your time out with your loved ones, and enjoying your meal. I told everyone of my experience with the Canoe a long time ago. It was horrendous. I did go back and had a good meal later. Next time I went, horrible staff, and waiting for food again. So that was my last time going. I won;t spend my money on a place that treats it's patrons like you are only a cash cow on an assembly line. Next will come the new charge to rent your seat, with individual parking meters by your table. Maybe they could give you one of those nice white kitchen timers to put on your table. You know. The kind my mother used to use when she cooked on her Almond colored stove back in the 60's.
Big head I tell ya...they got a big head.

BTW I don't believe there is high unemployment around here. Or else why don't they hire locals that would be here year round. I go to the VK and the servers there have been there for years and I see them all winter and know them by name. So that sign is just a crock of BS. Hire local and you won't have that problem. Know any good servers. I sure wouldn't tell any of the servers at the places I go that they are looking. They would probably get laid off come summer so they can hire the foreign exchange students.....Humpf!

Customer service in this country is going down the toilet and we all just let it happen. We need to stop this before it is too late. Next time you get bad service let them know it and if they don't care, don't go back.

[RailroadJoe]

AS for me. I eat to live not live to eat. I also prefer the VK any day of the week. The food is great and the portions are what I can eat. Still the top place for a meal, anytime.

[MDoug]

No bashing from me! I also refuse to enable bad-service businesses! Too many places get away with that "pay us your money and get out" attitude.

[Lakesrider]

I have to say though that if the VK took longer than 5 minutes to get my meal to the plate I'd be the first one on here asking what was going on at the VK.... I actually look at my watch when I go in there. It is a kind of a thing with me and my wife. I always bet her on fast the food will get to us. Now that is with the specials of course, but man are they fast as lightning....And the cooks are always in there hustling just as fast as the servers. Great folks. and as I said we know them by name. Very comforting when you know you are going to get good service from people who are like your friends.

[Happy Gourmand]

I don't get there nearly as often as I'd like to, even though the ride from Meredith isn't rediculous by any means.
When I do go, I have to say that it is the most efficiently run restaurant of any I have seen in the area. Everybody there has a personality and is an asset to the operation.
My guess is that Samiam doesn't have to spend too much time training his people to be nice and personable. Rather, he spends more time hiring the right people with the qualities that will fit in well.
Oh, and the food? Great home style cooking, very reasonably priced, great portions. Try the farmer's breakfast if you haven't yet.

Samiam, does this get me a pass to the head of the line on Sunday morning?

[NoBozo]

Originally Posted by Lakesrider

Well I know I'll get bashed for this but here goes.
The Canoe has a big head. I'll go to Mame's any day before the Canoe. I'll go to the Bob House any day before the Canoe. I'll go to the Village Kitchen any day before the Canoe. why? Because the service is awesome at those places. To me half the experience in eating out (and what you are paying for) is the staff and service that you get that says YOU ARE IMPORTANT TO US! If you want to go to a place only to be told you have until a certain time to eat and then get the hell out...Go for it. That just tells me they are interested only in the money and NOT US! You want to throw your hard earned money into a timed event, go to a Laundromat. Because they are just telling you, it's not worth the courtesy of letting you enjoy your time out with your loved ones, and enjoying your meal. I told everyone of my experience with the Canoe a long time ago. It was horrendous. I did go back and had a good meal later. Next time I went, horrible staff, and waiting for food again. So that was my last time going. I won;t spend my money on a place that treats it's patrons like you are only a cash cow on an assembly line. Next will come the new charge to rent your seat, with individual parking meters by your table. Maybe they could give you one of those nice white kitchen timers to put on your table. You know. The kind my mother used to use when she cooked on her Almond colored stove back in the 60's.
Big head I tell ya...they got a big head.

BTW I don't believe there is high unemployment around here. Or else why don't they hire locals that would be here year round. I go to the VK and the servers there have been there for years and I see them all winter and know them by name. So that sign is just a crock of BS. Hire local and you won't have that problem. Know any good servers. I sure wouldn't tell any of the servers at the places I go that they are looking. They would probably get laid off come summer so they can hire the foreign exchange students.....Humpf!

Customer service in this country is going down the toilet and we all just let it happen. We need to stop this before it is too late. Next time you get bad service let them know it and if they don't care, don't go back.

Next time you go to the Canoe: NO SOUP for you..ONE YEAR!

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by Lakesrider

Well I know I'll get bashed for this but here goes.
The Canoe has a big head. I'll go to Mame's any day before the Canoe. I'll go to the Bob House any day before the Canoe. I'll go to the Village Kitchen any day before the Canoe. why? Because the service is awesome at those places. To me half the experience in eating out (and what you are paying for) is the staff and service that you get that says YOU ARE IMPORTANT TO US! If you want to go to a place only to be told you have until a certain time to eat and then get the hell out...Go for it. That just tells me they are interested only in the money and NOT US! You want to throw your hard earned money into a timed event, go to a Laundromat. Because they are just telling you, it's not worth the courtesy of letting you enjoy your time out with your loved ones, and enjoying your meal. I told everyone of my experience with the Canoe a long time ago. It was horrendous. I did go back and had a good meal later. Next time I went, horrible staff, and waiting for food again. So that was my last time going. I won;t spend my money on a place that treats it's patrons like you are only a cash cow on an assembly line. Next will come the new charge to rent your seat, with individual parking meters by your table. Maybe they could give you one of those nice white kitchen timers to put on your table. You know. The kind my mother used to use when she cooked on her Almond colored stove back in the 60's.
Big head I tell ya...they got a big head.

BTW I don't believe there is high unemployment around here. Or else why don't they hire locals that would be here year round. I go to the VK and the servers there have been there for years and I see them all winter and know them by name. So that sign is just a crock of BS. Hire local and you won't have that problem. Know any good servers. I sure wouldn't tell any of the servers at the places I go that they are looking. They would probably get laid off come summer so they can hire the foreign exchange students.....Humpf!

Customer service in this country is going down the toilet and we all just let it happen. We need to stop this before it is too late. Next time you get bad service let them know it and if they don't care, don't go back.

Now I know why Restaurant has the word "rant" in it.

[Lakesrider]

Yep...I tell it like I feel. I just think when I go out for a meal I should get a little more respect, for spending my money in that establishment. I mean I could have just stayed home and cooked for half the price, but I am going out trying to support local business. If they don't respect that simple fact, I won't be back, and I won't be doing any word-of-mouth advertising for them either. On the other hand if I have a good meal in a nice place, with good food and good people, I will tell all my friends. And that isn't just for the Canoe, it is for every place I go to eat or shop. If that's a rant...that's my rant....

[Belmont Resident]

Originally Posted by Lakesrider

Yep...I tell it like I feel. I just think when I go out for a meal I should get a little more respect, for spending my money in that establishment. I mean I could have just stayed home and cooked for half the price, but I am going out trying to support local business. If they don't respect that simple fact, I won't be back, and I won't be doing any word-of-mouth advertising for them either. On the other hand if I have a good meal in a nice place, with good food and good people, I will tell all my friends. And that isn't just for the Canoe, it is for every place I go to eat or shop. If that's a rant...that's my rant....

Couldn't agree more. FYI I think a lot of peoples expectations have fallen and that is why they believe they are getting what they pay for.
Personally if it were not for taking my wife out every now and then and it is usually because neither one of us want to cook, we'd never go out.

[NoBozo]

For those that never watched Seinfeld:

More Clarification :http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVqBz...feature=relmfu NB

[canoe]

Good evening,

I do actually read the forum, I do reply and have posted my personnel email for anyone that would like to contact me. Thank you all for your comments, good, bad and otherwise. Regarding having a time limit on how long you can dine. I have never a will never have a time limit on how long a guest can or wants to sit at a table. We ask that specific question on very busy nights when we have reservations at open tables. For instance, a party of four walks in at 5:30pm, the only table or table available has a reservation at 7pm at them, the question arises is an hour and a half enough time for you, we have a reservation at 7 pm at that table which is available right now, is this going to be enough time for you to enjoy your dinner. If it is not I may not be able to sit you at this time, you may have to wait for another table that does not have a reservation waiting. All we are trying to do is accommodate all of our guest and MAKE EVERYONE HAPPY..Which we all now is not easy, but I think we do a damn good job at it…
I will say with 100% confidence I have never asked a table to leave or please finish up we have customers waiting, I have had CUSTOMERS ask people at tables to hurry up because they are waiting. Better yet you get customer telling you they will never come back because the table next to them was too loud or their children were crying, of course this is my fault. The summer is busy and so are the weekends, the season is short and we do our absolute best to accommodate all of our guests needs. Am I going to make every single person happy, apparently not, but you can best my last dollar I will try,,,, I am not in this business to make people unhappy, nor are my servers. We all rely on the quality of our food, service and the atmosphere we give to customers for our income.
For the notice about help, seriously we have never had as much of a problem getting help. We are actually turning away business because of the lack of servers and bartenders. This is a problem that has been going on for years, but never this bad, why work when you can sit at home and make more money, but don’t get me started… I think someone said if a business has been around that long with a good reputation they should have no problem with help. I wish that was the case. We are one of the few industries that you require your staff to work WEEKENDS, NIGHTS, HOLIDAYS, CHRISTMAS, NEW YEARS EVE, VACATION WEEKS, SONS, DAUGHTERS AND SPOUCES BIRTHDAYS IF IT FALLS ON ONE OF THOSE DAYS, ETC….you name it, any days the regular 8-6 working person has off we work, why: because we love the business, love making people happy with our food, service and atmosphere.
Again I thank all of you for your comments.
Scott Ouellette
Owner/ Chef

PS. The Capital Club is not a restaurant, just part of O Steaks in Concord

[NoBozo]

Originally Posted by canoe

Good evening,

I do actually read the forum, I do reply and have posted my personnel email for anyone that would like to contact me. Thank you all for your comments, good, bad and otherwise. Regarding having a time limit on how long you can dine. I have never a will never have a time limit on how long a guest can or wants to sit at a table. We ask that specific question on very busy nights when we have reservations at open tables. For instance, a party of four walks in at 5:30pm, the only table or table available has a reservation at 7pm at them, the question arises is an hour and a half enough time for you, we have a reservation at 7 pm at that table which is available right now, is this going to be enough time for you to enjoy your dinner. If it is not I may not be able to sit you at this time, you may have to wait for another table that does not have a reservation waiting. All we are trying to do is accommodate all of our guest and MAKE EVERYONE HAPPY..Which we all now is not easy, but I think we do a damn good job at it…
I will say with 100% confidence I have never asked a table to leave or please finish up we have customers waiting, I have had CUSTOMERS ask people at tables to hurry up because they are waiting. Better yet you get customer telling you they will never come back because the table next to them was too loud or their children were crying, of course this is my fault. The summer is busy and so are the weekends, the season is short and we do our absolute best to accommodate all of our guests needs. Am I going to make every single person happy, apparently not, but you can best my last dollar I will try,,,, I am not in this business to make people unhappy, nor are my servers. We all rely on the quality of our food, service and the atmosphere we give to customers for our income.
For the notice about help, seriously we have never had as much of a problem getting help. We are actually turning away business because of the lack of servers and bartenders. This is a problem that has been going on for years, but never this bad, why work when you can sit at home and make more money, but don’t get me started… I think someone said if a business has been around that long with a good reputation they should have no problem with help. I wish that was the case. We are one of the few industries that you require your staff to work WEEKENDS, NIGHTS, HOLIDAYS, CHRISTMAS, NEW YEARS EVE, VACATION WEEKS, SONS, DAUGHTERS AND SPOUCES BIRTHDAYS IF IT FALLS ON ONE OF THOSE DAYS, ETC….you name it, any days the regular 8-6 working person has off we work, why: because we love the business, love making people happy with our food, service and atmosphere.
Again I thank all of you for your comments.
Scott Ouellette
Owner/ Chef

PS. The Capital Club is not a restaurant, just part of O Steaks in Concord

GOOD EVENING to you as well. Haven't been to your restaurant yet: YOU SIR have not done your business any favors with your most arrogant and ill concieved post. NB

PS: Try to break up your text into paragraphs so we old coots (with money and an inclination to eat out) can read it without going crosseyed.. Thanks.

[brk-lnt]

Originally Posted by NoBozo

GOOD EVENING to you as well. Haven't been to your restaurant yet: YOU SIR have not done your business any favors with your most arrogant and ill concieved post. NB

PS: Try to break up your text into paragraphs so we old coots (with money and an inclination to eat out) can read it without going crosseyed.. Thanks.

I thought his post was pretty decent. Not going to win any literary awards, but it didn't seem arrogant to me. Just a basic to-the-point response to a lot of drama and hype in this thread.

I've never been to Canoe, but his post certainly didn't do anything to discourage me from wanting to go. In fact, just the opposite, he made a clear statement that these rumored policies and issues are not in fact conscious decisions by the business.

[WakeboardMom]

Originally Posted by NoBozo

GOOD EVENING to you as well. Haven't been to your restaurant yet: YOU SIR have not done your business any favors with your most arrogant and ill concieved post. NB

Well put, NB. I think perhaps Mr. Ouellete should've re-read and considered his note before he hit "post."

Mr.Ouellete says that he would never impose a time limit, and the scenario he describes for a time limit is plausible. However, based on several (many?) people's experience, not all of his hosts/hostesses are as diplomatic as that note suggests.

[Acrossamerica]

Ah the internet and its marvelous opportunities to spread the word about your business so very inexpensively. But also the place where one or two of your customer's well placed reviews can sink your business before you have a chance to even respond. And then when you do respond - Maybe that was not always the best idea either. Surely only the devil would invent so nasty a thing as the internet and allow everyone to chime in even if they do not have an oar in the water. And be able to do it with nary a care about being uncovered as to name, place or credentials.

Years from now we as a society who have not yet totally figured out how to deal with the industrial revolution of 150 years ago will look back on how stupidly we handled the information and internet revolution.

[NoBozo]

In retrospect, I was the one who made an ill concieved post. While I still have my opinion, just as the owner of the restaurant has his, I should have kept mine to myself. NB

[tbonies]

Canoe, thanks for the reply. We frequent all the time and think you all do fine. Hang in there with all the negative comments. Usually it is the same squeaky minority that think they are some kind of royalty or fine dining experts. A better gauge is the number of cars in your parking lot. Keep after it!

[WakeboardMom]

Originally Posted by NoBozo

In retrospect, I was the one who made an ill concieved post. While I still have my opinion, just as the owner of the restaurant has his, I should have kept mine to myself. NB

Sometimes things look different in the morning.

[Pontoon Goon]

NoBo, You stated that you have never been to Canoe but maybe you should get a job in the kitchen because you sure like to stir the pot. The owner responds with a concise explanation as to what and why policies are in place and your response is to call this man arrogant. How about forthcoming. Running a small business these days are difficult enough without somebody that has never even patronized the place taking potshots from the clock tower.

[CozbyDog]

My wife and I are celebrating our 12th wedding anniversary this week and when the question of dinner came up, without hesitation we said "Canoe". This will be the first time we have been out for dinner in a long time, it seems like logistics of a babysitter and some extra cash is a difficult thing to coordinate, but I have never left there feeling like I should have gone somewhere else.
My .02...

[4Fun]

We have been to Canoe a ton of times and still consider it a favorite. The Lobster Mac and Calamari makes for a great meal. We recently went to O as well and enjoyed the food there too. You can't please everyone.

[benzguy]

I actually respect the owner of Canoe having "the you know what" to actually get on this forum and defend and explain his establishments policies and views.
Oh by the way, I have lived here for 25 years, the local help in any business around this area is substandard, ... I was at the grocery store the other day and the person bagging just stood there with a blank look on their face like they were in a daze, probably on drugs... I ended up bagging my own groceries. Most restaurant servers change restaurants often because they get fired for missing work, lying, stealing, etc..., so I believe the owner when he says its hard to keep employees. But I guess it doesn't matter to some idiots..... example- see Nobozo post. You obviously have so much money, don't need to work and obviously have no friends or a life because you have never been to this restaurant but will bash it and try giving a grammar lesson at the same time. How many other forum discussions do you frequent and add your 2 cents in about something you have absolutely no clue or experience in????
Nobozo, Have I used enough paragraphs for you???
Anyway, I want to apologize to this forum for directing comments to individuals, but maybe they will understand what it feels like, as they don't seem to care when they post in the first place towards others.
This forum is not designed to slander and bash local business's, which is what a lot of people on this forum seem to often do. I had a bad experience at the local grocery store, but you don't see me posting the name of the grocery store, when it happened, who it was, and state I'm not ever going back to that grocery store. Some people need a reality check.

[Irrigation Guy]

I'm glad he came in to clear a few things up and thought he explained it well. Some people sure do get their knickers in a knot easily while hiding behind a keyboard.

Sent from my ADR6350 using Tapatalk 2

[Happy Gourmand]

Originally Posted by benzguy

I actually respect the owner of Canoe having "the you know what" to actually get on this forum and defend and explain his establishments policies and views.
Oh by the way, I have lived here for 25 years, the local help in any business around this area is substandard, ... I was at the grocery store the other day and the person bagging just stood there with a blank look on their face like they were in a daze, probably on drugs... I ended up bagging my own groceries. Most restaurant servers change restaurants often because they get fired for missing work, lying, stealing, etc..., so I believe the owner when he says its hard to keep employees. But I guess it doesn't matter to some idiots..... example- see Nobozo post. You obviously have so much money, don't need to work and obviously have no friends or a life because you have never been to this restaurant but will bash it and try giving a grammar lesson at the same time. How many other forum discussions do you frequent and add your 2 cents in about something you have absolutely no clue or experience in????
Nobozo, Have I used enough paragraphs for you???
Anyway, I want to apologize to this forum for directing comments to individuals, but maybe they will understand what it feels like, as they don't seem to care when they post in the first place towards others.
This forum is not designed to slander and bash local business's, which is what a lot of people on this forum seem to often do. I had a bad experience at the local grocery store, but you don't see me posting the name of the grocery store, when it happened, who it was, and state I'm not ever going back to that grocery store. Some people need a reality check.

WOW!! Tell us how you really feel about baggers and wait staff.

[CozbyDog]

Oh by the way, I have lived here for 25 years, the local help in any business around this area is substandard, ...

Benzguy, this quote confuses me- if you have lived here for 25 years and I assume you have a job, then I think you know where I am going with this...

BTW- My employer who has been in business for 93 years thinks I have been an employee with high standards for the last 18 years... and we're both local, imagine that.

[Pineedles]

I stand corrected! Canoe does answer posts on this forum but since our Webmaster pointed out that the last activity was in January of 2012, I should have said, In a timely manner".

Scott's response was reasonable, and as long as all the staff informs potential diners of the policy, then it was OK. I however have no problem with canoe, just the chef/owner.

I still stand by my perception of the rude and self-serving manner in which Scott handled a problem at O's Steak. For those who are curious, here is the link. I, nor any of my relatvives have been to either establishment since the incident, two of which have moved into the area in the past year. Two people won't make a difference, but it's a start.

http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/...ighlight=scott

[Lakesrider]

Originally Posted by benzguy

I actually respect the owner of Canoe having "the you know what" to actually get on this forum and defend and explain his establishments policies and views.
Oh by the way, I have lived here for 25 years, the local help in any business around this area is substandard, ... I was at the grocery store the other day and the person bagging just stood there with a blank look on their face like they were in a daze, probably on drugs... I ended up bagging my own groceries. Most restaurant servers change restaurants often because they get fired for missing work, lying, stealing, etc..., so I believe the owner when he says its hard to keep employees. But I guess it doesn't matter to some idiots..... example- see Nobozo post. You obviously have so much money, don't need to work and obviously have no friends or a life because you have never been to this restaurant but will bash it and try giving a grammar lesson at the same time. How many other forum discussions do you frequent and add your 2 cents in about something you have absolutely no clue or experience in????
Nobozo, Have I used enough paragraphs for you???
Anyway, I want to apologize to this forum for directing comments to individuals, but maybe they will understand what it feels like, as they don't seem to care when they post in the first place towards others.
This forum is not designed to slander and bash local business's, which is what a lot of people on this forum seem to often do. I had a bad experience at the local grocery store, but you don't see me posting the name of the grocery store, when it happened, who it was, and state I'm not ever going back to that grocery store. Some people need a reality check.

Wow...Just wow.
So it is not OK to say anything bad about the businesses but perfectly OK to tell people that the employees are thieves, drug addicts and degenerates. Man are you one sad individual. Two posts in and the locals are all scumbags.
Reality check? Here is one. I am a local. I go to work every day, I show up early and I stay late when needed. I don't steal, I don't lie and I don't use drugs. Well, Yes I do. I take blood pressure medicine of which I will now have to take another dose thanks to your post. And as far as servers not staying in one place very long I guess it simply couldn't be because of the instability in the restaurant business, the low pay. The lack of health insurance, the terrible hours, the walking fifteen miles a day, waiting on people that think 15% is too much....Nope....It's because they are are all degenerates. yep that's why they don't stay. Post number 2? Geesh.

For you to make a remark like you did about ANYONE is beyond reproach. I take my work ethic very personally, and for you to belittle us locals, is highly offensive. You owe everyone of us an apology.
BTW....
If someone has a bad experience some place, they are fully within their right to tell everyone about it so that people are informed. To do that you need to name names or we won't have a clue what you're talking about. Many of the people who write a bad review about one place or another, will be the ones who write a nice review about some other place. I have written bad reviews about one place and then after going back have written a good review about the very same place. I can't just say I went someplace and not give the name, because it would be completely pointless. So, THAT is the purpose of internet forums. Whether you use that information or not is completely up to you. If I listened to everyone on the Dodge truck forum I never would have bought my Dodge Ram. I love my truck and have not had any of the issues that some seem to have had. Just like the fact that some people like the Canoe and others don't. I won't go back and I doubt they give a rats butt. When you post about someone not caring about what they post and then name a forum members name and call people "idiots" just because you don't like what they said, your doing the exact same thing. Talk about calling the kettle black. Reality check for sure.
I guess everything will be back to usual at the Canoe. People that like it will keep going and those of us who have not had good experiences there will not. And the world goes round and round and round, like the Circle Game.

[wifi]

The personal attacks recently have gotten a bit much. I tune into this site to learn and enjoy others experiences and personalities, that's not what I'm seeing lately. Why pollute some topic others might be interested in reading about, start one of your own on how much you hate xyz so we all know where its going? Maybe this is the sign of the coming 12/21/12? (chuckle)

[baygo]

Originally Posted by Acrossamerica

Ah the internet and its marvelous opportunities to spread the word about your business so very inexpensively. But also the place where one or two of your customer's well placed reviews can sink your business before you have a chance to even respond. And then when you do respond - Maybe that was not always the best idea either. Surely only the devil would invent so nasty a thing as the internet and allow everyone to chime in even if they do not have an oar in the water. And be able to do it with nary a care about being uncovered as to name, place or credentials.

Years from now we as a society who have not yet totally figured out how to deal with the industrial revolution of 150 years ago will look back on how stupidly we handled the information and internet revolution.

The Internet is the most powerful tool ever presented to man-kind. The power of the pen is no longer monopolized by a select/privileged few. The skill we all need to develop is an ability to quickly qualify an author.

I am a restaurateur with solid positive reviews on every restaurant review website. Recently an author blemished our near perfect (4 1/2 star) ratings on yelp with a 2 star review. Those who take the time to look further will learn that the same yelpster gave a hot dog stand a 4 star review. Was this yelpstter qualified to review our restaurant? Absolutely! Based on the author's standards, I'd have been more concerned had the review been parallel to the hot dog stand.

A couple of years ago there was a thread on this forum that contained negative posts about our restaurant and we weren't even open yet. Fact is: those negative posts helped us. We were a hot topic for several weeks prior to opening. "Canoe"has been atop the restaurant thread for about 3 weeks now. There are over 7k views and nearly 100 posts. Like Carnege said "I don't care what they are saying about me as long as they are talking"

I personally chuckle at the attacks on the owner. Old adage; "don't judge a man until you have walked a mile in his shoes". I believe that a great restaurant is not created base on how good the great moments are but instead on how good the bad moments are. I've not walked in Scott's shoes but I feel safe assuming that his restaurant(s) would not still be here and he would not be growing if he did not have the ability to consistently deliver. A bad moment in his establishment(s) is still much better than the best moment many of his competitors can deliver.

[benzguy]

I can assure you that I am not the Canoe. Also I am not the only
one that responded to your last post. So feel free to respond to the others
that feel your comments were not justified as well. This entire
topic has spun out of control. I'm done.

[jetskier]

Hi all,

We decided to go to the Canoe this evening and I thought that I would report back here.

It might have been the long weekend, but the Canoe was completely packed. We did see the sign in the lobby essentially requesting patience in that seating could be a bit slower than normal due to staff turnover. The sign has been posted here previously. Anyhow, we were told that the wait was 50 minutes and we found 4 seats at the bar downstairs instead. The service was impeccable and the food was great. I opted for the baked stuffed lobster and my wife got the lobster Mac & Cheese.

At no time were we rushed or felt that we needed to hurry our dining experience. Overall, everything was great on a very busy night. So, I would have no trepidations returning and would expect that it will be a bit easier to get in as the leaf season draws to a close.

jetskier

[Shreddy]

Personally, Canoe is hands down my favorite restaurant in the Lakes Region. From the service to the food all the way down to the ambience and price, I have never had an issue. I feel you get what you pay for and PERSONALLY I have always gotten what I've paid for at Canoe. I will continue to patronize and talk about my positive experiences at this establishment.

Also, I believe Scott O's response was respectable and justified. He didn't bash, yet told it like it was. He's not here to be your best friend but rather to run a business. He took the time to respond and clarify some of the FALSE RUMORS about his establishment. I think that some need to LIGHTEN up.

Lakesrider, not that I don't love the VK and their impeccably fast service, maybe you should realize other people like to go out to dinner for enjoyment. If I wanted fast food when I went out, I'd go to McDonald's. Comparing the VK to Canoe is unrealistic. Can you get a NY Prime Strip steak oscar style with a bottle of vino at the VK? This isn't meant to be a personal attack, I'm simply trying to justify the fact that some of your comparisons are completely out of line. I won't speak on service...I love the service at VK but I've also had immaculate service while being at Canoe.

Again, just to reiterate...if Canoe's not for you, then don't go. They're doing something right where their parking lot is always filled and clearly management is proactive with the criticism. I commend them and look forward to going back and also The Woodshed.

[Lakesrider]

Originally Posted by Shreddy

Lakesrider, not that I don't love the VK and their impeccably fast service, maybe you should realize other people like to go out to dinner for enjoyment.[B] If I wanted fast food when I went out, I'd go to McDonald's. [/B] Comparing the VK to Canoe is unrealistic. Can you get a NY Prime Strip steak oscar style with a bottle of vino at the VK? This isn't meant to be a personal attack, I'm simply trying to justify the fact that some of your comparisons are completely out of line. I won't speak on service...I love the service at VK but I've also had immaculate service while being at Canoe.

Again, just to reiterate...if Canoe's not for you, then don't go. They're doing something right where their parking lot is always filled and clearly management is proactive with the criticism. I commend them and look forward to going back and also The Woodshed.

Ummm, you need to re-read my reply. Where did I ever compare one places food to another, or say anything about food? I just mentioned where I would rather go for good service. Never said anything about food. The Canoes food is excellent.
I do enjoy going out. I go out to eat two or three times a week. I support local business the best I can.
Am I however supposed to ENJOY waiting an hour for my drinks as the waiter walks by my table time and time again too serve others their drinks that came in after I did. I don't think so. Am I supposed to enjoy it when I flag him down and he sighs when I ask where our drinks are....Like I am bothering him? Those are some of the experiences I have had. Why is it just me? I have no idea. I don't have
any Swastikas tattooed on my forehead, Hells Angles Jackets, or horns coming out of my skull.

Obviously you don't like the Village Kitchen's food by your remarks comparing them to McDonald's, and have no problem expressing so. Yet my comments about the Canoe's service are unacceptable to you. Using your example in comparing the VK to McDonalds, it is just as unrealistic. Can you get Prime Rib at McDonalds? Pot Roast? Haddock? All in the same amount of time practically as getting a Big Mac?

If ever I do go to the Canoe again, and walk a 1/4 mile from the church parking lot again, in the rain, I'll be certain to wear a shirt that says "Shreddy" on it. Maybe I'll have better luck getting better service......

Re-read my reply....S-e-r-v-i-c-e....Nothing about....F-o-o-d......

[Shreddy]

Originally Posted by Lakesrider

Ummm, you need to re-read my reply. Where did I ever compare one places food to another, or say anything about food? I just mentioned where I would rather go for good service. Never said anything about food. The Canoes food is excellent.
I do enjoy going out. I go out to eat two or three times a week. I support local business the best I can.
Am I however supposed to ENJOY waiting an hour for my drinks as the waiter walks by my table time and time again too serve others their drinks that came in after I did. I don't think so. Am I supposed to enjoy it when I flag him down and he sighs when I ask where our drinks are....Like I am bothering him? Those are some of the experiences I have had. Why is it just me? I have no idea. I don't have
any Swastikas tattooed on my forehead, Hells Angles Jackets, or horns coming out of my skull.

Obviously you don't like the Village Kitchen's food by your remarks comparing them to McDonald's, and have no problem expressing so. Yet my comments about the Canoe's service are unacceptable to you. Using your example in comparing the VK to McDonalds, it is just as unrealistic. Can you get Prime Rib at McDonalds? Pot Roast? Haddock? All in the same amount of time practically as getting a Big Mac?

If ever I do go to the Canoe again, and walk a 1/4 mile from the church parking lot again, in the rain, I'll be certain to wear a shirt that says "Shreddy" on it. Maybe I'll have better luck getting better service......

Re-read my reply....S-e-r-v-i-c-e....Nothing about....F-o-o-d......

One to talk...had you read my post I believe I stated pretty clearly, "not that I don't love the VK..." I have no complaints with the VK. My comparison to fast food was in reference to your off topic bragging about how you're a local who gets their food in five minutes.

I'm SOOOO Sorry that when you go to Canoe everything goes wrong. As I said, if it's not for you then don't go. But to make remarks bragging about the VK in a Canoe thread seems off topic and does not add any value to the debate.

BTW, you act like it's Canoe's fault that it rained out when you went or that you had to walk because their parking lot was full. Had you called or waited I am almost positive they have a shuttle that will escort you. Seriously, do you really think Canoe was like, "Lakesrider's coming, make sure he walks in the rain and we give him our worst service".

At the end of it all, I still support Canoe and I have nothing short of the service I would have expected in my visits.

[Lakesrider]

You love it. I don't. Glad we can agree to disagree.