Dinner before comedy show in Galveston was no laughing matter

James Mandel had a bad Mother’s Day experience. “My wife, her mother and sister and I went to the Salt Water Grill in Galveston before the Lily Tomlin performance at the Grand 1894 Opera House. The wait staff was gracious and considerate. My companions’ meals were fine.

“I ordered grilled tuna served over soba noodles with Asian vegetables. I asked that the sweet Thai chili sauce topping be omitted because I do not like spicy food. I also asked that the tuna be grilled rare but warm in the middle.

“The entree came with the Thai sauce on it. Since I do not like spicy food, I sent it back. The entrée was returned. It had been washed. Yes, you read that correctly. The entrée had been washed.

“I refused the washed food, and the entrée was re-cooked. Remember that the tuna was to be grilled rare/warm and served over soba noodles? The tuna was cold and served over white rice.

“The staff suggested another entrée. I agreed. The entrée was fine, except by now it was time to attend the performance. I asked that my entrée be boxed up and kept for me until I could pick it up after the performance. What could go wrong?

“They threw my entrée away!

“I asked that the owner call me. He did the following Monday, apologized and said he would send me certificates for two complimentary dinners for my wife and myself. The certificates have not arrived.

“I called the restaurant and holding company and asked that the owner call me. He has not returned my calls.”

Another reader rant

Barbara Shaidnagle

writes: “On April 9, my husband and I visited the Frenchy’s at 8110 Kirby Drive. Imagine my surprise when I was charged 25 cents for a cup of water. I inquired about this and was told, “we are charged a quarter for every cup.” If we do go back, I will choose the free 5 ounce plastic cup that needs frequent refills, as all they have are sugary drinks, none healthy.”

This reader’s forum is a chance to become a restaurant critic or ask other dining-wise readers for suggestions. Letters may be emailed to syd.kearney@chron.com. Please include your full name and a daytime phone number.