I have been going to Saddlepeak lodge for almost thirty years. I have gone on dates, had family celebrations and birthday celebrations. The last two times, however, have been disappointing to say the least. The last time I made birthday reservations thirty days in advance, specifically requesting downstairs seating by the fireplace (very romantic!). I called twice to confirm the reservation as the date approached and was assured each time that it would be no problem. (I made the reservation very early in the evening so my chances would be better.) Upon arrival, we had to wait half an hour to even get into the parking lot because they were having a wedding reception. The wedding booked the entire first floor of the restaurant. Now, no one mentioned this when I confirmed the reservation twice? No explanation whatsoever was given (I had to ask) as we were led upstairs to the ""library"", which is quite pretty but an entirely different atmosphere and, at that early hour, completely deserted and quiet so we had to whisper in order not to be overheard. Dinner was tasty, I have to say, but the prices have grown substantially over the last few years and the menu has shrunk. The bill arrives, and I hand over a $200 gift card (wedding present). The total was about $187.00, so I also handed over a VISA card so I could supplement the tip. This created a problem, the waitress had no idea what to do. What she did was come back to the table (after 15 minutes) and tell me that the gift card was only for $175. I produced the paperwork from the restaurant that came with the card that specifically said $200, which the restaurant had filled out and mailed to us. She had to go back and see the manager, who finally agreed (after another half an hour) to honor the $200 amount. Needless to say, not a very good ending to a largely disappointing experience. I don't mean to sound like I have so many sour grapes about the place, I used to absolutely love it and recommended it regularly to my family and friends. Not anymore!
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