Niko's Greek Restaurant Watch out for "specials" a great way to trick people, consumer ripoff Spokane, Washington
This is against restaurants in general, but this one took the cake by exploiting the "specials" price. Tonite I went to Niko's in Spokane, WA for the first time. I looked at the menu and saw items were $16-$20 in price range, on the expensive side.
The lamb shank I wanted was $17 and I was about to order that when the waitress told me they had a lamb "special". Now is it just me or does the word "special" holds intrinsic meaning that you are getting a deal?
At the grocery store, do the "specials" cost more or less? They cost less. Not at restaurants though. They figured out this is a great way to trick people. When my bill came I was shocked to see that the lamb "special" was $28! 65% more than the regular lamb menu item! Factor in their 8.1% tip and 20% gratuity (which they assume when running your card for approval) and the difference is nearly $15. Granted it was lamb rack not shank, (though the waitress said it was lamb chops, and they can always change the portion versus the price). The lesson here is: when the waitress tells you they have items on "special", ask how much they cost, and if they cost 40% more than any other item on the menu, file a Rip Off Report!
Neil
Liberty Lake, Washington
U.S.A.
2 Updates & Rebuttals
John
Spokane,Washington,
U.S.A.
Your mistake was going to Niko's, the issue here is one of expectations
#3Consumer Comment
Tue, February 01, 2005
Your point is well taken. When a menu item is a "special" such as the old "blue plate special" we used to order at diners, it does imply that we are getting value for our dollar. But I don't think that you came in a place like Niko's looking for a good deal as much as a good meal.
Obviously the issue here is one of expectations. You thought the waitress was representing the menu item as being "on special" instead of a different item altogether. A misunderstanding, but I don't think it amounts to an indictment of fine dining restaurants as a whole.
By the way, if you want great mediterranian food in Spokane - go to the White House Grill in Post Falls. Their specials aren't on the menu so you ought not to have this problem in the future. Happy Dining.
Neil
Liberty Lake,Washington,
U.S.A.
8.1% tax
#3Author of original report
Mon, February 16, 2004
8.1% state tax that is.