"I'm writing this review in hopes it finds it way to the correct manager or owner. I'm a 55 year old individual who has been eating with the Rafferty's establishments in several locations since I was 12 years old. I have always recommended Rafferty's very high in food quality, atmosphere, and service. This review is not a complaint it's what I would call a courtesy notification. It's a term that I like to use since I have been in the hospitality and and manufacturing workforce for over 30 years and I'm very appreciated when people bring these things to my attention. On 11/08/2023 my son and I was going to get a late lunch and we were in the Athens Ga. once again Rafferty's popped up at the top of the list. Upon arriving at around 2:10pm through the front door we noticed four employees in the hostess or check in area. Two employees leaning up on the prop and other two standing there nobody greeted us and there was no conversation going on with them. As we were standing being observed by the four not one word was spoken from any employee. I was waiting for a welcome to Rafferty's or how many is in your party as I looked at my son as time was passing. I said, hey two please. I thought enough time had passed so I would break the ice with the first words. Three of the four just looked at us and each other and the one employee who was almost laying all the way backwards on a prop in the back said, what about the bar? I replied, fine nobody pointed showed us to it or anything it was extremely obviously they didn't want to be bothered with us. As we made our way to the bar I looked the restaurant over to see if other areas were closed for repair, closed off for cleaning etc. nothing of that sort. We sat down and my grown son said, wow that was strange. I replied, yes I told him I almost just walked out because it was very clear they didn't want to be bothered. The lady/employee at the bar was very nice she explained the specials and told us the details which eased the discomfort not not feeling welcome. Rafferty's was not busy at the time two others at the bar, and I counted 16 other customers. The quality of the food was good and the waitress was good. Then we paid the check and was leaving once again, exiting the door the same four employees were in the lobby area three of the four had their phone out scroll or playing. I urge the management team or owner to take a look at their staffing needs this would make a good coaching topic. This type of perception will in the end get you a minimum return as I said, above if it would have just been me I would have walked out. I never felt the need to beg anyone especially when I paying the bill. I'm just glad there wasn't a group with us that day. I hope this courtesy notice finds it way to the someone with leadership qualities. Thanks ."
