This evening was our second time here as the very first time was back in September of 2019. We came back because were were very impressed with the service and menu. Well this evening, was far from the case. I want to say that first off that our SERVER was outstanding. She was very sweet, attentive, and had a great personality. This review has NOTHING to do with her. We sat in the booth in the bar area right next to the stairs that lead to the second level. Everything started off normal with the same great service and same great appetizer. Well most of our food came at the same time, which was not an issue at all. As we started to eat our dinner, one of the bartenders sat down at the booth across from us and apparently was taking his break while also enjoying a beer. Then either the owner or the manager decided to join him. Now we are far from uptight, but having your employees take a break where other guests are seated and drinking a beer is not something that is proper. Well, then another employee decided they were going to have a few beer samples at the small table that was next to us. With COVID-19 restrictions, he was fully violating these. Another employee came over and sat down and joined the first guy and she was drinking a frozen beer. Then the employee that was at the small table not even three feet away from us, sat down and started drinking a full beer, eating dinner, and reading a book. The last time I checked, employees having a break and drinking right out in the open with guests is totally unprofessional and borderline unethical. Further, with the current COVID-19 pandemic and regulations, you have 100% violated these regulations with allowing an employee to sit not even three feet away to sit and enjoy their dinner and beer. We did not even finish our meal. We asked our server for to-go boxes and the bill. When she brought everything to us, I advised her that the whole situation that was going on as well this is something that I have never seen and should not be happening or addressing. There are restaurants in Michigan that have been following the COVID-19 regulations 100% and they need the money. There are many more restaurants that we will now go to and spend our money at, because we feel a "free for all" is not someplace that I want to try to enjoy a good meal (that is far from cheap might I add) and we also want to feel safe when we dine out. * UPDDATE TO THE OWER * Ron- Good morning. I first want to say WOW. I have never received feedback that has been honest, heartfelt, and professional. THANK YOU!!! Your detail and investigation into the matter is something that is admired and commendable. As small businesses owners ourselves, we understand that owners cannot monitor everything 24/7/365. We want to again, say a huge THANK YOU for taking time to resolve this matter and to potentially avoid this matter with other guests. In time, yes we will be back to dine because the food outstanding, the craft beers are amazing, and prior to this incident the service is amazing. We again want to recognize our server. Unfortunately we cannot remember her name, but she went above and beyond and was very apologetic for the matter. The only information we have from our receipt is Table 51/1/ 4/2/2021/ 8:32 P.M./ 10169. I have updated my review to now 5 stars because you have taken the time to address the situation and respond. Stay safe. Scot Havera-Elmore

- Scot Havera-Elmore Verified

Response from Salt Springs Brewery Good morning Scot, Thank you for taking the time to share the details surrounding your visit to Salt Springs last night. As the GM and an owner, I'm frustrated and appalled by the lack of care my staff displayed to you and your companion. Every restaurant still open after this past years ordeal is grateful to have guests such as you choose to come out and dine in person. Salt Springs as a whole is beyond grateful for the support we've received and I believe that's because we've demonstrated to everyone that we know how to do what's right, we know how to work clean, and we know how to take great care of our guests. For some unknown reason, that I will get to the bottom of later today, a handful of my staff decided to let their guard down. Let me first clear something up. Our staff is not allowed to consume alcohol while clocked in. After a busy shift, we do allow staff to enjoy a beverage of their choosing, but only after they clock out. Our policy is "One and Done", after which they're on their way home. Once clocked out, they are considered "civilians" and not bound by our strict policies surrounding the consumption of alcohol while clocked in. Staff pays for their shift drink and as such are "guests" just as you are, so I want to be clear that there was nothing illegal or unethical about staff enjoying a drink after their shift had ended. However, this is where any leniency with me ends. I'll detail my mandates below. I will not make excuses for this behavior. While I was not there, I was immediately alerted by my phone to your review. Subsequent calls to my manager confirmed what had happened. Everyone involved last night was made fully aware of the protocols that were not followed and the damage to our reputation and goodwill that comes with their actions. Salt Springs Brewery has been open for almost 6 years. We've bested the statistics on restaurant failures not out of sheer luck, but because we sincerely care about our guests. The Owners and managers work endless hours to ensure that staff follows the literally hundreds of minute details required to provide great food, service, and hospitality to our guests. It sickens me beyond words to see all of our hard work thrown in the trash over what was an easily preventable situation. My staff knows better and I can promise you with certainty that each member of my staff will read a copy of your review and my response to it. They will then sign off on their complete understanding of what is expected of them while working and after they clock out from their shift. Violation of this policy going forward will result in immediate termination from Salt Springs. Going forward: - All staff will observe and respect the 6' rule for social distancing and all Covid protocols with respect to guests dining at Salt Springs Brewery. These rules apply at all times, clocked in or not. - No staff, clocked in or not, will be allowed to sit in the Back Bar area to consume food or drink when guests are seated in that area. - Staff will change into their "street clothes", removing any mention of Salt Springs Brewery from their person and seek proper seating as a guest, or leave the building entirely after their shift. We're all very tired of all things Covid, but that does not mean we can drop our guard for a moment. Infections are still happening and the only way I can keep Salt Springs open is if each and every one of us does our best to stay safe and healthy. I use every review from a guest as an opportunity to reinforce with my staff how to do things better. As I mentioned above, we've not been open this long because we're thoughtless and sloppy. The restaurant business is not forgiving for those that are. I thank you again for taking the time to share your experience. In time, I hope you'll check back in to see how seriously we take these comments from our valued guests. Be well. Stay safe, stay healthy, Ron Schofield Jr. Scott, Ally was your server. She is amazing! Thank you as well.