What was the best part?

My friend, Sarah Singer, and I were enroute to Tallahassee.  Everyone knows that is a long and boring trip.  However, it was a trip we knew was necessary as we continue to plan the 170th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Florida which will be held at St. John's Episcopal Church in January.

We stopped for supper at the Texas Roadhouse Grill in Lake City.

We had already been a bit surprised.  The parking lot was filled. Our wait would be about 15 minutes. This was on a Wednesday night. Must be something special going on.   Our buzzer signaled it was time for us to be on the way to our table.

The server smiled as she reached into a window and retrieved a plate of hot rolls and cinnamon flavored butter and asked us a question.

"What was the best part of your last visit with us?"

"First time here," was our response.

We had chosen our entree and were chatting when a man appeared  holding a plate that held two ribs - each looking more like a slab of meat that just happened to have a little bone attached than a rib.  They were drenched in bbq sauce.

"Just a little extra treat for all of our first time guests", the man, whom we assumed to be the manager  said. 

The ribs were outstanding.  Our dinners arrived.  We almost wished we had ordered ribs rather than sticking with out diets and ordering salad with grilled chicken. 

Next time we would order the ribs.

As we continued to enjoy our dinner, more than one server stopped by to asked if everything was good etc.

Not only was it good; the service was incredible.

Who knew that in a little town like Lake City we would feel like we were at a Ritz Carlton?

And why do I reference the Ritz Carlton?  Because they are known for outstanding customer service.  I learned this last year when I was interviewing physicians and practice administrators for Florida's Pioneer Medical Society, A History of the Duval County Medical Society & Medicine in Northeast Florida.  A few years ago the staff at the Borland-Groover Clinic, Northeast Florida's 60 plus year-old gastroenterology clinic went for training - at the Rita Carlton headquarters.  My interview with Vicky King, the practice administrator, told me that the training at the Ritz had been one of the keys to the reputation that Borland-Groover enjoys.

My point in all of this?  Customer service is of utmost importance today's economy.  We've kind of gotten away from that.  When we need something we often talk with someone who speaks a different language and additionally we often hear - sorry we just can't "fix" that.

I'm not naive enough to think that our economy will afford us the opportunity to be treated royally at every juncture.  I am simple enough however to recognize it when it happens and to take an opportunity to share the goods when it does.

If you want a good meal and have time, go to the Texas Roadhouse Grill in Lake City; if you want a nice place to stay, save your money and go to a Ritz and if you need some gastroenterological assistance, my money is on Borland Groover.

It's all about the way they make you feel!