Keith Lee Takes on Atlanta

Chile, Tok Tok influencer Keith Lee took a lil road trip to Atlanta and basically left the hospitality industry there in shambles. Keith's escapades in Atlanta have shed so much light on how Atlanta restaurant owners have completely abandoned industry protocols and are making up all types of arbitrary rules that line their pockets and accommodate their laziness.
Let's talk about it...
#KeithLee #funkydineva #FunkyBunch

[@samyljones3871]

I TOTTALY AGREE WITH EVERYTHING FUNKY SAYS however just to sprinkle a tad more nuance . BLACKS HAVE BEEN LEFT BEHIND AND OUT FOR EONS UPON EONS. WE GET SHITTED ON GLOBALLY AND WE DEAL WITH HATE DAILY ; obviously its going to show in our business . If we had the EONSSSSSSS of years like whites to get all the kinks out wed be like white places as well.

[@str8kaseinochaser369]

I agree! But on the flip side tho having those EONS should’ve been sitting back learning taking 📝 so when it was your turn wouldn’t be as hard.

[@AD-pr8sh]

Lol excuses

[@glitzxglam]

⁠@@AD-pr8shexcuses for sure cause even if that was the case, you’d think that would be something to motivate a person even more to make & keep the establishment up to par in all aspects. Like ok, You’ve been shitted on ‘globally’ so that means open up a business which was an absolute dream for ya ancestors to go from the BACK of the kitchen to owning, ya finally get the opportunity just to end up giving rude, half a&$ customer service to paying customers ??? Like what

[@edwinjacks]

Excuses n no accountability!

[@queenme23]

Accountability is in order. We know what we face and BEEN facing..no surprise out of the blue shock factor .all the more reason to do better ESPECIALLY to your own. Everybody else do it but for some reason WE join in on the hate train and it keeps us down as a whole. SHOW UP AND SHOW OUT because we been thru enough and STILL WE RISE..TOGETHER WITH EACHOTHER. my thoughts..

[@MaseRhea]

My cousin runs a very popular restaurant, she was hired as an operations manager then became the GM for her problem solving abilities. She suggested that all to go orders be prepared on a food truck exclusively separate from the restaurant. The owners loved the idea and implemented it. Not only did that idea somewhat expand their business, it also allowed for the dine in guests to receive the best experience, and the staff doesn’t have too many additional jobs. There are solutions but people have to stop being greedy and actually nurture their business.

[@jdeux3677]

THIS...a separate kitchen for to go orders

[@blinkxx3240]

That’s was an amazing idea

[@bossbabe8797]

That's a great idea! I was saying that the to-go orders should be prepared in a totally different area. Never thought about a food truck!

[@mamapsims]

I went to a restaurant in Kenya that did this. The food truck for to go orders was at the parking lot entrance so you didn't even have to drive inside. Very efficient

[@bosslady5211]

"People have to stop being greedy". That's a word. We pull too much money out of our businesses, instead of reinvesting it in ideas like this to run our businesses more efficiently. An investment for efficiency lead to growth. This was a great example.

[@a.6130]

He’s not “dry snitching” , he’s letting us “regular folk” know what type of service to expect when WE go to these places , he’s reviewing the restaurant for us , not the millionaires . OH WELL !

[@Roki2819]

Right it is what it is. What people aren’t getting he was really trying to feed his family he wasn’t here for just reviews. It was a whole family including kids and they were hungry.

[@uzumaki3755]

Yep. Plus, he didn't even critique the food, just explained why he couldn't get it. That's a management/logistics problem.

[@joirichardson1479]

Exactly! Entitled People always want all the privileges when "regular" folks are truly their bread and butter! We outnumber celebrities so the bulk of their customers are regular folks! Why not just always use best business practices that way that restaurant has a lifelong customer with regular and celebrities‼️

[@AUGUSTALLEN28]

Frfr. A review is a review and it's information that the consumer may find useful.

[@kenyattaira]

If they know him they should know he doesn’t like special treatment.

[@clking1908]

This is a sidebar, but this is the second time recently I’ve heard you speak up on behalf of the autism community. In a recent TGIF segment, you commented that people with autism were some of the nicest people you know. As a mom of an autistic son… thank you! It’s refreshing to hear someone not necessarily connected to the community, defend and give accolades to those with autism. I often wonder how my son will be received as he gets older and ventures out more independently. He is the smartest, kindest, purest person I know. So your words meant the world to me. ❤

[@serenityserenity9829]

From a mother of an autistic son I agree❤

[@thetruthandnothingbutthetr6484]

“Autism” has now become a catchall For bad behavior and bad parenting

[@missy_Sass]

❤️❤️❤️

[@deedee2736]

I encounter a lot of adult autistic adults who work at my local grocery store. I am amazed of their capabilities. I find them to be Always nice, structured, trainable, and loyal. Although groceries are a little higher at this store, I purchase from them often because I love what they stand for and how they give people with disabilities an opportunity to be “normal” by making an honest living.

[@gabbylovesyou365]

Agreed!!! I’m also a mom with an autistic child❤🧩

[@TamiBaybee96]

The funny thing about the Keith Lee situation is it’s nothing that the average person hasn’t been saying for years. These people just mad he’s putting them on blast on a larger platform. This is not a black business thing. This is an Atlanta thing.

[@TamiBaybee96]

I also want to add some of these things are clearly such a cash grab for these folks and sadly I do feel like they know we will support a black business so they don’t go above and beyond to adhere to a standard as long as their meeting their profit margin.

[@christopherc7411]

She addressed it her full clip on her IG..

[@TamiBaybee96]

@@christopherc7411 what are you talking about? Keith addressed several ATL restaurants hence my comment

[@ET-hc4wl]

It’s a black business thing as well.

[@pousseandco]

@@ET-hc4wl It's definitely a black business thing. Yall can come to Houston and these same criticisms are just as valid. It's wild out here.

[@N.Z99.]

How can you give an honest unbiased review KNOWING the service you get is preferential vs the service they give everyday customers??? Keith Lee is for THE PEOPLE and the approach to his reviews are in the best interest of THE PEOPLE that support his platform. Hats off to the young man for not allowing his integrity to be compromised by accepted special treatment during a pop up review. He did exactly what needed to be done.

[@Oneandonlyjai]

This!

[@elleque1]

I just hate that people are now familiar with his mom and wife because now they may change

[@MmmKayHuuNay]

This is exactly my thoughts, funky didn't make sense to me.

[@t8styc8kz]

So if you owned a place you gone let Barak Obama stand outside in a long ass line?

[@elleque1]

@@t8styc8kz Barack Obama was a president. This ain't that.

[@mochabrown4447]

I went to the Kandi restaurant OLG in Atlanta with just a small group of four ladies total. Long story short, we never received any food 🤦🏾‍♀️. The waiter disappeared and Kandi auntie said they were running out of food. We literally waited 2 hours lol. One of my worst restaurant experiences.

[@KnowledgeSeeker78491]

No matter what day of the week you go, they will be out of something because they are broke, black Americans who should be going after reparations instead of restaurants

[@prtdiva]

Running out of food?! After 2 hours?! Chile I would’ve flipped that table over like Theresa on Jersey 🤣

[@humbleheart2650]

@@prtdiva😅😅😅

[@dii-N-sd]

Wow..that's embarrassing!

[@Bklyn112]

The problem is many of the "entrepreneurs" are not restauranteurs. They are celebrities of one sort or another. Just because you have the finances to open an eatery doesn't mean that you know anything about industry protocol. I stay away from celebrity owned establishments for this very reason.

[@xtoyak1981]

Keith needs a two week vacation after this Atlanta trip lol

[@5thHouseProductions]

Right!!! That man went to two restaurants and left empty handed!

[@cortezmiller1899]

@@5thHouseProductions So, he went to two restaurants and people are saying it’s the whole Atlanta? Well that can be anywhere where that can be said about black businesses or any business!

[@perdybirdie]

You sound silly. He went to more than 2 but 2 left him empty handed which is a serious issue

[@charlettarice2645]

@@5thHouseProductionsHe went to multiple places..it was only two that got video footage

[@bedroomkandibytre2993]

Restaurant reviews aside, Keith is trying to change situations for people and bring happiness to others with his blessings. Checking on his neighbor who has dementia and no relatives, buying ice cream trucks out to pass to school kids. People are only focusing on the one part that he's doing. Doing humanitarian work is who he is.

[@jenesishunter9674]

Ate That 😊

[@BeGood4Eva]

Ya'll acting like this dude is the second coming to Jesus. Just stop. There are many people who do humanitarian work and don't film it for TikTok. Just stop.

[@nerdguru86]

​@@BeGood4Evayep.... You're apart of the problem.. Y'all praise Gordon Ramsay spicy ass.... Smh

[@itsatimocracy]

You hit this on the nail. As a manager of an Outback I can tell you that you just have to hire the best staff. Schedule certain staff on certain busy days in the back for smoother service. And a manager is trained to cook and make the kitchen flow; take my blazer off and jump in the trenches. Sometimes just the presence of a manager on the line makes the kitchen run better. Front of house operations is important but that back of house need to run like a machine.

[@glencro]

Now you are a true manager …thanks for setting the standard

[@prtdiva]

Bingo! As someone that used to serve, this is how it’s done! 👏👏👏

[@allthewayupnorth_8155]

Outback is a chain restaurant. Just because Kandi is wealthy doesn't mean all her money should be going into her restaurants...that would be bad money management. Any person who owns a restaurant will tell you if it can't sustain without your money, close it. Kandi is not on the same level as the CEO of a chain restaurant and just collecting a check.

[@itsatimocracy]

@@allthewayupnorth_8155 every restaurant chain or not should be concerned with the guests’ well being.

[@introvertedblackgirl]

@@allthewayupnorth_8155and just because She’s wealthy doesn’t mean She should continue to open up Businesses [COLLECTING CHECKS] that She can not sustain a certain level of Professionalism and proper Service. Outback didn’t become a chain over night and I’m sure it wouldn’t have become one if they ran their business the way Kandi runs Hers. He spoke on more Restaurants than just Kandi’s.

[@divinityninefour5095]

Paying to park and to get in a restaurant Is absolute madness 😂

[@shantamonique]

Keith Lee is ALWAYS respectful and always tells people to judge the restaurant for themselves. He read Atlanta for filth as he should , everything here is a popularity contest and who you know and what can you do for me. 🤦🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️I think the biggest issue I’ve found here is ALOT of people don’t want to work and the majority of the restaurants that aren’t a franchise is usually an entrepreneur who doesn’t have much experience in hospitality so there’s that. They hire their friends and family which often spells a recipe for disaster 🤷🏾‍♀️🤷🏾‍♀️ just my two cents

[@shantamonique]

Let me not forget to add 9/10 the food is MID at best and the customer service is non existent . Let me also mention I’m from NY where the world says the rudest people come from , and I’ve met some of the rudest, nice nasty, condescending and obnoxious ass people in the so called southern hospitality having south 🙄🙄

[@RipplesnWaves]

You are absolutely correct

[@negril7446]

So true!!!!

[@ashleyrogers1930]

@@shantamoniqueYou do realize almost no one nowadays in Atlanta are from Atlanta and most people in Atlanta are either from NY, Chicago, Miami, TX or some part if California. All these different people moving here definitely changed our culture. I'm Atlanta proper born and raised and I'm not used to this rude ish. When I was growing up there was alot of Southern hospitality. You became friends with the people you rode the Marta bus with on the regular. People got up for elderly people on the bus without any issues its just what you did. You would have long conversations with strangers like they were your best friend. This new ish for the birds.

[@shantamonique]

@@ashleyrogers1930 I’m not slow I know the majority of the people here are from elsewhere but the y’all flew here we grew here people ain’t no better 🤷🏾‍♀️🤷🏾‍♀️🤷🏾‍♀️

[@m.sthomas7820]

Keith did what needed to be done with respect. His point is everyone should be treated the same

[@neceynecey4679]

Bottom line......the scammers in the ATL have ruined it for everybody. Restaurants, nails, haircare, apartment rentals, you name it. Scammers be gone.

[@erinvonelle4348]

Mannn…I’m a nail tech in ATL and I know for a FACT that I’ll sweep the city when I put my business plan into action. Good customer service just doesn’t exist anymore and people don’t have a choice but to deal with it because it seems like NO establishment in Atlanta has good customer service, no cleanliness standards, everybody got roaches, nobody is licensed or educated in their field, they’re overcharging for subpar service…I mean it’s ridiculous. People just want money. They don’t care about the actual customers

[@jellysofa]

@@erinvonelle4348let us know when you open up your business!! 💅🏾 we need people who know what they’re doing and who give a damn!

[@keishafromscratch]

Protect Keith Lee at at all costs!!!

[@kemsmith3483]

I hate when black folks say this. How are you going to protect him and why do we need to protect him? He is a grown man and should be able to protect himself. Will you protect me at all costs? Let God do the protecting and protect yourself.

[@natashagreen8147]

PERIOD!!!!!!!

[@chimcham6762]

​@@kemsmith3483 You must be fun at parties 🙄

[@BigShawn2u]

​@@chimcham6762right🙄🤣

[@yestheresanr]

​@@kemsmith3483⁰0

[@christianataylor8926]

Omg! The mandatory gratuity really is insane. I went to a restaurant this past weekend for my 30th birthday. The mandatory gratuity was TWENTY PERCENT. I was gagged. Then the waitress tried to give us a sob story about the gratuity not going to her. These corporations are robbing their staff, but it now becomes the responsibility of the consumer. I’m so sorry sis, but y’all need yo unionize because I’m not tipping IN ADDITION to the 20% automatically deducted. God bless.

[@Taggimit]

I went to a BO food truck, got a side salad TO GO and because I didnt want dressing on the salad (I wasnt eating it right then), it was 50 cent for dressing. What salad doesnt come with dressing? That's an industry protocol issue because huh? IT'S A SALAD! IT SHOULD COME WITH DRESSING REGARDLESS!

[@Oneandonlyjai]

What?! Cancel my whole order cause that is crazy!

[@Taggimit]

@Oneandonlyjai Trust me... I wanted to! And I'd already tipped them, THEN they charged me. So, in essence, it was $7+ for a side salad. I will not be going back.

[@msmewiththat7532]

​@@Taggimitdon't blame you at all. I would not either.

[@candygal3923]

That’s terrible! That’s like this black owned soul food restaurant by me that tried to deny me the drinks that came with the two kids meals I purchased because the kids weren’t present. Mind you I purchased two adult meals as well, so it wasn’t like I was trying to get over. They said they would let it slide that one time and I ain’t been back since.

[@Taggimit]

@@candygal3923 I really don't understand the logic! It's just bad business all together!

[@sagereidy]

The black food scene is just as bad in Houston. I stopped eating at black owned restaurants 6 months ago and my outings have been much more peaceful. I hate how we have overcomplicated the concept of eating out. Paid parking, hookah, loud DJs, bad service, automatic gratuity, grass walls, neon signs, Hennessy wings, and the same chicken & waffles….I’m over it all. I have a better experience at Applebee’s.

[@kgiovanni9443]

Girl you said it and don't for get the shrimp and grits and mac and cheese, I'm over it too!!

[@arijohn8413]

Or the “seafood” pasta. Houston really is just as bad as Atlanta.

[@jack23tommy]

4 Lamb chops for $40…it’s so bad in Houston I barely go to the bars in Fountain view anymore…how do I spend almost $30 before I walk in

[@ebony2399]

Sad but true.

[@empressleesa2252]

Not the grass walls😂😂😂. Listen..and the automatic gratuity grinds my gears. Especially if they servers r crap.

[@DTMyles]

I live in Manhattan and my brother moved to Atlanta for a job. We went to several restaurants and the service at all of them was awful. My brother told me, Atlanta just has horrible customer service. I believe him.

[@helgapataki4156]

Keith did right for dry-snitching. Its a SACRIFICE for consumers to spend on luxuries i.e. dining & they too deserve to be treated w/ RESPECT. I applaud him & his Family 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@sh-oo4wm]

Candy & the Gang is not a luxury

[@helgapataki4156]

@@sh-oo4wm Spending $ on ANYTHING aside from basic needs is luxury!

[@becarbe9729]

To Funky Dineva’s point I don’t even think it was dry snitching. He can tell whatever he wants as he reviews food. It is actually called telling the truth. I agree with everything else Dineva said.

[@helgapataki4156]

@@becarbe9729 I said, "dry snitching" as a form of satire, hence its what FD used. I'm aware of what Keith's critique actually was & what it meant for ALL consumers 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@MOBBTheRightWay]

Right. Stuff is tight in this recession and he saving us money on BS.

[@carlasmall5215]

Between the restaurant parking fees, raggedy customer service, subpar food, car booting, and scaming in the ATL.... I just steer clear honey. Keith Lee ain't said nothing the general consumer hasn't been saying and he said it with much more grace that most of us would. I appreciate how he handles the reviews even when it's not good. He does it with grace.

[@kimberlyb6522]

BINGO! If anyyyy of these establishments went on Yelp, they’d see way worst feedback.

[@wowtierrabudgets8134]

It’s definitely not dry snitching. He is reviewing the customer service. What’s most important for a business is that their customer service to the average customer is excellent. Not just those with social capital. It’s actually the most important part of his work as a food critic.

[@Mzlillybaby]

I love Keith. I love that he came through Atlanta like a damn hurricane. The restaurant culture there needs some straighten!!!!

[@janmerridy304]

Amen to that

[@musicneurons]

My friend said she ordered Korean fried chicken from her fav atl restaurant yesterday, and it has never been so crispy and flavourful 😂.

[@CD-xq1lc]

After the 5th time of me yellin “talk about it” to the tv screen, I had to make a comment. The last 15 years our black community service providers have been putting us through it. There’s been a cultural shift. From “hairstylists” to restaurants. We are paying extra money for our time to be disrespected. I live in Houston where there are a slew of black owned restaurants. I have no desire to visit any of them. From paying to park to waiting in a line outside to enter to not being able to make substitutions and the long wait times. It’s just tewwwww much. There is a white woman here in Houston who BRAIDS down…..Do you hear me? She’s never double books, she offers beverages, snacks and a professional experience from beginning to end. I can’t even be mad at her 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@itsjustmeshay]

What’s the hair braider info, cus I’m sick of the African braid shops 😅😅😅

[@pousseandco]

I live in Houston too. If the restaurant has grass on the wall and bottle service girls, I cross those off my list.

[@tjackson839]

Same problem in Atlanta.

[@CD-xq1lc]

@@pousseandco immediate NO! That damn green grass wall is a dead giveaway that it’s finna be some bullshit 😂😂😂

[@arijohn8413]

I frequent Houston a lot & I AGREEEEE😂😂

[@evewatson9295]

Not only black businesses need a makeover in Atlanta, but people need to speak up about being mistreated. This goes for all businesses that follow people around, the shaky hand servers that shake the food off the servering spoons, passing people to server others, restaurants not opening on time or being closed for no reason, to big box restaurants charging for extra coffee creamer, ect. I wish people would video tape their experiences without being rude and post them.

[@anyaf4011]

No food in the world will ever allow me to put up with bad service or long wait times. I'm sorry... especially with the increase in food prices. This conversation can be extended to hair salons, nail salons, and eyelash services. I have walked away from very VERY talented people because of their lack of professionalism. (Showing up late to appts, not picking up the phone, not confirming appts, then leaving during an appt) 😅

[@ItsTuma]

Keith said what needed to be said. I do not live in Atlanta but I’ve experienced this each time I’ve visited. He’s amplified all of the complaints and constructive criticism we have already given. These restaurants owners need to show appreciation to the customers that frequent because it’s the right thing to do. Hire more staff, do better, as it’s the right thing to do.

[@jenesishunter9674]

Ate That 😊

[@cynthiag3463]

OLG service is awful. I've eaten at every location. I paid for parking and got crappy service. I don't plan on ever going back.

[@rakelbmarkaosdaughter7244]

My sisters and I went to Kandi’s restaurant one time. We were in ATL for our niece’s HS graduation 6 years ago. We called and no one either answered or there was a busy signal. We got there maybe 2 hours before closing and was told no more seats were available. I wasn’t leaving right away because we took an Ubër there from our hotel and I wanted to wait. I saw ppl at the bar that were close to finishing their meal and we were a party of only 3. Ten minutes later we sat at the bar and we ordered our food. It was really good. After we sat down maybe an hour or so later Yandy Smith arrived and she got a table right away. I wasn’t tripping because I know she is famous and may or may not have had a reservation but was going to get priority over us. We spent a decent amount of money on food, drinks, and desserts and tipped over 20%. To turn away ppl without even trying to accommodate them is ludicrous. I don’t think I’ll ever go to one of her restaurants again.

[@terramckay5636]

That is so true! I get the feeling sometimes black establishments don't care about customer experience. They expect you to accept mediocre service. And act like you better not complain. I'm from Louisiana and I tell you service in the Metairie and New Orleans was top notch. I moved to Houston and had a rude awakening.

[@memp9786]

As a long time resident here, this is the unfortunate norm here, not for just restaurants, but essentially customer service in almost all industries, especially hospitality. It never ceases to amaze me how these “luxury brand” restaurants & hotels have operated for soo long with trash employees front-lining their businesses! It’s truly baffling.

[@Hougurlaw]

TOTALLY AGREE with the restaurants that charge to get in after a certain time! They doing that in Dallas too. We pay to park, pay to enter, paying more for food & drinks (inflation), and they expect a 20% tip. Thank you for putting this ridiculousness on blast❕️

[@mariejane1567]

the tip is for the waiter not the owner......

[@sdmac1339]

That is crazy. I live in NYC and only time you pay for parking is if the lot is separately owned and operated. I agree with the lack of industry status in these businesses.

[@sdmac1339]

Some black establishments try to do too much. If you sell soul food sell that, don't try to be a music lounge at the same time. If you are a bar/lounge sell limited bar food menu. Do small plates and shareables so you don't run out of foid.

[@tabbyc3970]

@@mariejane1567pay them more so they don’t rely on tips.

[@Dimples706]

I love what Keith Lee did, I believe that the issue with the beauty salons in Atlanta need to be addressed also.

[@A__Lauren]

THIS!!!

[@PoshFancy]

As an Atlanta native and resident, I’m so over Atlanta and this “black Hollywood” ish. This all came to a head when these love and hip hop people started opening mediocre restaurants and businesses. They treat their consumers like absolute ish and it’s not something that is sustainable for the long run. I for one have stopped supporting most of these types of restaurants. It’s sad but it makes you not want to go to a black owned establishment for the very reasons you spoke. It’s crazy! I will spend my money at a mom and pop before going to most of these places.

[@turonhayes1518]

And sleep comfortably full and satisfied ✊🏾🙂✌🏾 dollar well spent what’s next…

[@GasXBrakez]

Native here as well. They are literally giving the perspective of tourist. I dont experience this in Atlanta. I dont eat at or visit these establishments. Fans are so obsessed with what Atlanta scene "looks" like. As natives we just dont live like that!

[@MyraJ78]

U make a good point. If it weren't Kandi’s restaurant would they be getting as much business as they do. They can not do take out bc they don't have to. But it's an insult to the customers.

[@jonesjones3762]

Yasss..I be at the Beautiful on Cascade..$10Fried Chocken plates PeriodT

[@GasXBrakez]

@@jonesjones3762 I might go across the street and get a ox tail in a nice ambience with FREE parking idk what these folks talking about! I'm not naming no establishments cause if the tourist overflood theyll have to get all those ridiculous rules and paid parking! But you know exactly where I'm talking about!

[@lc3712]

Yes to all this. This is why I will ALWAYS decline "club brunch" when my friends ask me to go. I get too mad too easily, especially about food.

[@jayatmosphere2745]

Went to a restaurant in Atlanta (Nouveau)on a Sunday and they only took orders off the brunch menu. We knew this going in, so we wasn’t that disappointed however the brunch menu was mediocre (with no substitutions). The entrée’s just didn’t make sense in my opinion. Also, they advertised live jazz music but instead had a DJ that was playing LOUD R&B and HipHop that was just so annoying and again toooo Loud. There was no way to have any type of conversation without yelling across the table so we didn’t even bother to talk much. Food was so strange that no one in our party took leftovers home.

[@LadyK623]

I concur!

[@sherletmoore368]

😂😂😂😂😂 I'm definitely getting upset about my food

[@christinacreates2393]

I get mad about my food too lol

[@thsharp]

This is hilarious!!!

[@DonnaInTheBlack]

Went to a black owned restaurant in LA for a friends birthday. Made reservations for a party of 7. They called us an hour before reservation to confirm. We arrived, seated and found out that over half the menu items were not available. Trapped because we could go someplace else due to party size. No apology. No special accommodation. Not even a damn Happy Birthday.

[@86CrewMembership]

Wow that's awful

[@uzumaki3755]

Which one was it? I eat a lot with friends from my writing group in L.A., especially Bl@ck spots.

[@shakiyagotdreams2299]

Damn

[@jayj.6146]

Which restaurant was this?

[@DonnaInTheBlack]

@@uzumaki3755 Post & Beam

[@Teenytinymia]

I tried working at a black owned establishment as a bartender once. It was terrible. The girl who trained me did not know what she was doing, and had the nerve to be condescending. Told me she learned how to bartend online. I got my bartender license in NY and I worked at Fridays for years. I ended up training her ass. They never called me back after that lol.

[@lrs1519]

I’m tired of this!!!! I want to be served a good quality drink. Not some punch y’all made that y’all have in a plastic container sitting off to the side Once I went to a nice enough restaurant and do you know these fools sent me a drink made from a bartesian?! I could taste the mix from the pod and I don’t even use that. I study and make my own classic drinks from scratch at home and it was very insulting to have that happen.

[@seattleboyz5208]

Whenever people are incompetent they compensate with being condescending.

[@Petitedelight87K]

@@seattleboyz5208yep, extra defensive. You have to pay your dues.

[@Autumn-zd9nq]

I hated the bartender at J.R. Roosters. She was unprofessional. She spoke to me like I was a child, didn’t know popular drinks like Rum Runner or Hurricane and then put my order in 10 minutes after I told her, asking me to remind her what I wanted for my sides. This was one of a few Atlanta restaurants’ experiences that had me fed up. I’m going to go one more time to a different restaurant and if it’s the same bullshit I’m never stepping foot in another black owned restaurant in Atlanta ever again.

[@turonhayes1518]

Just WOOWWWWWW 😮😮😮 MUCH RSPECT TO YOU FOR KNOWING YOUR CRAFT!! ✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾 This stupid I’m learning online is getting to be beyond arbitrary sheesh the laziness

[@helloxonsfan]

*The great thing is that Keith loved most of the restaurants he visited in Atlanta. It was just the customer service of the 2 high fuluting big-shot "celebrity" restaurants that he had an issue with. A couple of pals & I visited Atlanta many years ago, & had great experiences at the regular-degular restaurants we went to.*

[@jonkiyosaki6600]

He didn’t like it, he ranked it last in his food tour cities 😅

[@serenity3900]

Specifically with OLG, that business has been open long enough and has taken in enough money to expand at this point. This would have been better than Kandi opening other mediocre restaurants. She could have fully fleshed out OLG and then opened the other restaurant later. If you can’t accommodate to go orders or provide SOME free parking, there’s still work to do.

[@teeb.7315]

All shopping and eating on Peters Street pays for parking. Y'all act like Kandi and Todd are the only ones on the street 😂. Peters Street is considered a historical street and the city makes the rules.

[@jro7274]

I went to a McDonald's to get a fish sandwich and they were backed-up with orders. The manager gave me an apple pie and a sweet tea while I waited.

[@KwaJobe]

South African over here 🙋🏽‍♀️. I'm shook at all these rules and added payments. I've never heard of most of this stuff. Suddenly I feel so privileged. Look, we've got our problems though (many huge problems) but generally restaurants are a pleasant experience even in the hood

[@sage-luxe1198]

Also, when we have these discussions I don’t know why people make excuses for BO restaurants. There are Ma and pop restaurants that are ran by white, brown, asian people, they still give great to reasonable service across the board. Poor service is unacceptable, period.

[@rainbowbrite9780]

Exactly! Like why can they give excellent service but our own people can’t? We need to stop making excuses and playing victim!

[@rerebrook5057]

Let’s not act like you won’t get a bad experience with them too, especially if they are racist.

[@sage-luxe1198]

@@rerebrook5057 You definitely can, but they tend to want to get you out there fast AF. Some BO restaurants really try to give you the full experience of wasting your time upon the disrespect 😂😂

[@Rizzyvoe]

@@sage-luxe1198😂😂😂

[@KelvinR3]

I ain’t never heard of a sit down restaurant that doesn’t allow take out. That’s insane to me. Could never be me 💀

[@astridh.536]

I work in a fine dining, high volume, reservation only restaurant and we don't offer take out service. Considering the places reviewed were not fine fining, that could be the difference. However, we don't do takeouts as our restaurant is an experience.

[@KelvinR3]

@@astridh.536 right! Like I can understand if it’s a fancy, high class restaurant that there’s no take out 100%. But no take out orders at random chicken and waffle and soul food restaurants is INSANE 😂

[@Ysnuggle]

I was just talking about this with my students. I told them I’ve been offered complimentary food from Chick fil A to a swanky seafood place because I had to wait for my food. Never settle when you are a consumer.

[@momoshiggles3631]

When I visited a McDonalds in Paris a long time ago, my friends and I had to wait a very long time for our food. Those workers gave us heaps of free food and apologized for the wait. I learned at a young ago what good customer service could look like-even in fast food. McDonalds in the US would neva.

[@DoYouEvenRift]

As a bartender/server I do whatever it takes to make my customers happy. One time I spilt hot soup on a lady and gave them such good service and so much free stuff they tipped me more than 30%. Extreme example but you get what I mean

[@sylviaennis1243]

Keith Lee hit it on the nail. These businesses (particularly black owned) in Atlanta always have a bunch of rules that are ridiculous! Not only do they charge for parking, some of the establishments charge a cover fee for entry. Just like funky says, and the service is HORRIBLE! I try to support these businesses, but they make it difficult.

[@perdybirdie]

Stop supporting this mess. No offense bur customers like you are why they stay open and don't change anything. They don't have to if you support anyway

[@greatness5154]

Speak sis. I tried to visit black owned restaurants Friday thru Sunday in Atl. Some have impressed me in many different ways and some disgust me. The issues you noted are spot on.

[@mariejane1567]

did you pay for parking at the beyonce concert?

[@sylviaennis1243]

@@mariejane1567 I didn’t attend the Beyoncé concert.

[@mariejane1567]

@@sylviaennis1243 if you did you would have to pay is the point

[@DeeMarie87]

You mentioned this once before, these restaurants try so hard to be different, these really shoot themselves in the foot because they provide terrible service. As black people, we don’t owe black business owners a pass on the products/services they provide on the strength of being black. Especially if the service is bad. I like Kandi, but she didn’t address the bigger issue of “celebrities” getting preferential treatment. Keith’s family was given a 1.5 hour wait, but when he came in after, he was given a 5 min wait.

[@QueenSugar72]

🎯💯

[@natoshaboyd5383]

I agree with you also

[@venusnepheteria7534]

💯. Many people are willing to look past other issues when the service is on point. But that is usually where they lack the most, its really crazy!!

[@teeb.7315]

Keith Lee portrays himself as a food critic. Food Critics are required to be seated quickly or set an appointment. That's the law. So the workers did what they thought was right. ATP, he should be aware of that and see how young employees will look at him as a qualified food critic. And stop blaming them for doing the right thing. So it's not about being a celebrity. A food critic will be treated above a celebrity. Because an owner can get a citation if not.

[@AmillionRays]

As much as I like to eat out, I've recently decided to start cooking at home more often to avoid the rude customer service, bad food and unnecessary expenses at these establishments.

[@moniqueruffin525]

I eat out at restaurants ALOT. My worst experience was visiting a black owned restaurant in Atlanta and received less than okay service. My waitress called me sis throughout our interaction. She forgot several things like napkins, water and our dessert. When this was brought to her attention, she responded by saying her other tables (wink wink) were keeping her busy. This made me think that she thought that because I was black, I would understand and would accept sub-par service. I was finished. I did talk to this young lady about my experience and was met with an attitude neck popping and ecxuses I wished her well and left her a 20% tip. I never went back to this establishment.

[@shatemasmall9027]

I hate that, like damn just because we're both black, it does not mean that you stop being professional. We do not know each other, and this is your job, and I am a customer. Treat me as such.

[@joannelindsay4977]

Good for you. Sometimes you tip and never turn back.

[@Petitedelight87K]

Some advertise as black own to fallback on being graded on a curve. It’s detrimental.

[@thecramptons]

@@Petitedelight87Kyup

[@serenityserenity9829]

And that's exactly what I'm talking about we need to respect the black customer while being black ,professionalism is a must for me

[@ceirrathompson4787]

Kandi didn't address celebs only waiting 5 minutes while the average person waits an hour...they clearly tell staff to let celebs skip the line

[@dqc1984]

What restaurant wouldn't do that tho? Do you think if Bey and Jay pulled up to a restaurant they're gonna wait the same time as a regular customer?

[@Tpainlilbro]

@@dqc1984you talking about Jay z and Beyoncé not no influencer

[@dqc1984]

@@Tpainlilbro an influencer is just that, somebody with influence. A restaurant would be crazy not to give special treatment KNOWING that they are going on social media to talk about said experience. Just like Bey and Jay would bring a spotlight on their establishment and influencer would too. Especially when said influencer is known for restaurant reviews. The same thing was being done back in the 90’s but instead of calling them influencers they were called food critics.

[@MizGator]

@@dqc1984 exactly, everyone would expect Obama or Oprah to skip the line, but for some reason think what happened with Keith is outrageous. Keith is the most known restaurant/food critic out right now. When he reviews a restaurant it can make or break them. Food critics in general get special treatment, i.e. extra food, drinks, etc and Keith is definitely no different.

[@MercuryBubble]

I don't think yall think realistically. Someone with influence will get pushed to priority. It happens EVERYWHERE in hospitality. Hotels. Hospitals. Restaurants. You name it. Is it fair? Probably not. Is it the business looking at their bottom line and relevancy? Absolutely.

[@DancingD0lli3]

I worked in a restaurant in NYC and the suggestions that you gave at the end of the video were things that we were required to do while customers wait, especially when there’s a long wait. It helps people feel seen and not just another number

[@momoshiggles3631]

I’ve never experienced the level of craziness being described in Atlanta at any NYC restaurant.

[@liteeyes1882]

Keith Lee exposed an issue that alot of people have been complaining about with Atlanta restaurants! Keith wasn't disrespectful or rude, he spoke the truth about his experiences!!! If the restaurants can't handle constructive criticism then they better learn!!!!

[@kayajamae2092]

Ive served and bartended for two decades in different states for all types of people including atlanta for 8 years and ill say something real…one of the biggest differences i’ve seen with ownership is that white owners tend to be strictly about the guest and food quality consistency. Black owners a lot of times (but not all the time) tend to use their restaurant as a way to boast. Gathering their people, giving away A LOT of free stuff which inevitably leads to overall quality and consistency suffering.

[@kayajamae2092]

Also, outside of holidays, any restaurant non fine dining restaurant should provide to-go orders

[@Theeconvo]

FAX

[@JoshuaJWatkins]

THIS!!!!

[@glitzxglam]

That’s exactly IT!!! It don’t even gotta be a restaurant - anytime a blck person opens up anything, it usually becomes something to just BOAST about! No real passion for it, the ppl they’re serving or the industry that they’re in. It’s a matter of ‘Look what I did’ ‘Look what I got’

[@Lay__Loves]

THIS. Point blank, period.

[@DD-cc4vz]

Case in point, I’ve frequented Seasons 52 at Perimeter for at least 8 YEARS now primarily because of the bar staff - Bartender Gerald AKA G, is the main reason. He’s black and EVERYONE loves him. He remembers your name and what you like to ear, drink and pours HEAVY. His SERVICE is why I continue to go. ❤

[@Ms9mmBeretta]

I don't even know this Keith Lee guy but he was so damn respectful with his critique of these restaurants and they're still mad, hey Black businesses, if you're going to have a business and if you want Black people to come and patronize and support y'all, stop giving us a million reasons to stay home. Any Black business owner who reads my comment and has a problem can come for my neck, because I'm ready for you. Come on.

[@hayaglamazonluxe]

Black business owner here and I totally agree with you

[@sashanco4212]

It's ridiculous how MUCH I enjoyed every piece of this rant 😂😂😂😂😂

[@empresslonnie1love391]

Same here 🤣🤣🤣

[@joegurt2957]

EVERY….DAMN… PIECE lmaooo

[@joanvenice503]

I went to OLG pre-pandemic, and it was the WORST service I'd ever had . After a 2 hour wait (which I was initially told 30-40 minutes), I had to wait another hour to receive our food only to find "hair" in my food🤮. I like Kandi, but I will NEVA go to ANY of her establishments again.

[@Amethyysst]

Kandi should be ashamed! She has the tools and resources to fix her issues at her restaurants but yet she refuses too. Get it together Kandi!!

[@infiniteeffects777]

Just stop visiting the restaurant!!! We all have choices. I visited her restaurant The OLG it was on my bucket list upon visiting Atlanta. The first visit OMG the food slaps!!!! I was satisfied with my whole dinning experience. I never eat all my food. That day my plate was clean baby!!!The second time in July 2023, I met my mom and sister in Atlanta from Texas and invited friends from Florida to try the restaurant along with me. I wanted to share the goodness of the food and the restaurant, unfortunately the experience was not the same. Most of the menus items were out, everything we ordered was not available and it was heartbreaking to see my families faces. My family and I all agreed after waiting in the hot sun on the outside patio furniture for 2 hours (starving), when we could have eaten at McDonalds and been about our day. We wrote a review but no response. I will tell you if you can get in and eat the food is good, the impression I got was being above the law, you get what you get. Kandi, do you want a slow nickel or a quick dime? Stay around the food is great, tighten up the ship!!!! Not sure if I will come back but O well that’s my choice!!!

[@asurles35]

Kandi restaurant is not the only restaurant that does it

[@ebony2399]

Kandi is just greedy. She can’t see past the dollar signs.

[@ShixB]

I have been wondering if she operates her other businesses in the spirit of non-excellence like this restaurant? Are the tenants who rent from her living in unrepair? I just don't understand it.

[@ashleypowell1722]

@@ShixBshe owns it but don’t run it She has mangers to do that

[@KendraShavonne]

They try to keep low staff to avoid paying more overhead. They need a to go menu and designate employees just to accommodate to go orders.

[@Miss_Dani_DWhit]

Exactly

[@ccpitts770]

This is how corporate restaurants are operated

[@franb4797]

I live in Atlanta born and raised. I usually wait a year to eat at a new restaurant so they can work the kinks out. I spent $78 on brunch by myself a entree and 2 drinks with plastic silverware. I was thinking I should have went to Ruth Chris and got a petite sirloin for less

[@jazgal1cooks115]

As a chef easiest way to lose a food business is to expand to a corporate set up before an established in the food business. To go orders should be its own entity in most restaurants. To go orders only put stress on a kitchen if they can’t handle high volume orders. That’s why I recommend personally ever chef or restaurant owner to work with established line prep to cook to understand of what is needed for your restaurant.

[@maryjanesbaby9392]

Thank you for making sense.

[@TJ-yv3kp]

Preach. This is why alot of businesses can't handle Grubhub, UberEats and etc orders...leaving customers disappointed

[@pdiddy523]

If you own a restaurant and you don't offer to go orders your restaurant is ghetto. IDC

[@T-Mab]

Thank you! I was looking for this comment.

[@tanyaapplin7737]

Kandi work on those ticket times. Get some dishes with fast times

[@marlonholt40]

I wont go ahead of anybody, i wait my turn. Keith Lee did his job, i loved it and will base my resturant patronage on his reviews exclusively. He is needed, I support him 100%.

[@juttybear7024]

That part about paying to park really hit my soul.

[@tianah7467]

This review is one of the many reasons I love him and will forever be a fan. His perspective is always so honest and real.

[@Eclectic_cookie]

Living here in Atlanta, I can say that there is a whole lot of entitlement and “we want to be exclusive” down here with these restaurants. A new restaurant pops up 2 times per week. Like most things in Atlanta, especially with black people, owning a restaurant or really any business is a “status” symbol.

[@Josco31]

No lies told!

[@Giraffe27]

All the energy goes towards the aesthetic and making sure it looks good on ig🙄

[@dashawndavis838]

Funky Dineva, well said. As someone who grew up working in restaurants as a cashier and then a server at Low end restaurants and top-notch restaurants to now running a successful business for seven years. I completely agree. I go out of my way to support black owned businesses but I tend not to frequent any restaurants that we work in or own because the experience is so bad. I’m sorry.

[@lrs1519]

Im very excited about this discussion taking place. A tik toker Cecilia pointed out that black peoples have an attitude that we shouldn’t treat each other well in service and we should just accept poor food, service, etc. If I am making the effort to come spend my money with you, please treat me as if my patronage matters to you. Why am I being made to feel like I had the audacity to come to your business? Like how? She also pointed out that these rules are made with no prior cause bc some owners automatically see the worst in the demo (black people) and these crazy rules are born. If that’s the case, go get another building and cater to others!

[@missdiagnosis2530]

Exactly!

[@xokiandra]

They’d never attract the others tho! That’s what they know. Someone else posted that ATL has an overwhelming demographic wanting to patronize black owned. Others could care less.

[@lrs1519]

@@xokiandra babyyy you are absolutely right

[@NamasteInYourLane]

Black business owners know how black people are treated on a regular basis by other groups of people. So you would think WE would go out of our way to give nice, kind service to the next black person but that's not the case. They treat their customers like crap.

[@lrs1519]

@@NamasteInYourLane it’s awful

[@girlnuhuh]

I went to a restaurant in San Fran once, and they give you unlimited free house wine while you wait for room in the dining area. Once you’re seated, then you start paying for wine that you order at the table. People didn’t mind waiting hahaha, and the service and food was AMAZING.

[@naurrr]

that's awesome

[@MZHUEY100]

I love that he showed him being favored over his family because even though we might try to roll out the red carpet it shows not only the restaurants and his viewers there should be fairness and he is truly humble. Even for celebs and influencers if they are only visiting and not local you're putting them above your every day customers who keeps you afloat, so they are more deserving for that same red carpet treatment.

[@mariejane1567]

no it showed him being an ass because he's on some to catch a predator type ish. If you're famous of course you get preferential treatment. If you wanted to be treated normally decline the table and get on the guest list and wait.

[@allthewayupnorth_8155]

Actually he wasn't being favored. Kandi addressing that is in the full video on her IG. Kandi said the hostess told her when she called the names of the ppl on the list before his family, those ppl weren't there. Keith Lee's family were rightfully next.

[@momoshiggles3631]

Yeah. He’s amazing. He also does that because he wants to review the experience for the everyday customer. If he gets preferential treatment, he wouldn’t be able to give an honest critique of the customer service.

[@CosmicAirhead]

I really think Keith Lee is very honest. I feel that in my heart. I don't think he was dry snitching. We aren't used to seeing or experiencing truly honest people like him nowadays. I think it makes people want to find something wrong with him.

[@artiesha42]

I agree

[@SimplisticGrace]

It’s amazing how regionalized this issue is. In Charlotte, a few places have tried this and have had to close locations and food trucks. Even our nicest black owned restaurants allow to go orders

[@tamekawhite2608]

Just moved to Charlotte and I must agree...my restaurant experience here has been great 👍🏾😃

[@SimplisticGrace]

@@tamekawhite2608 listen… we will shut a place down if we feel froggy! Cuzzos and Lulus have learned very quick!

[@primekarich8755]

Prime 112 in Miami does 2go orders!!! Folks are too boujie for their own good.

[@elles.6768]

​@@SimplisticGraceI never experienced problems with Cuzzos' service, only consistency with food. Now Lulu's is another story! 😂 I haven't been there in a while.

[@pettiford1982]

@@SimplisticGracewhat happened to Cuzzo’s? I’ve always wanted to try them.

[@Atpeacewithoneself]

I LIVE HERE IN ATLANTA AND YOU HIT THE NAIL WITH THE HAMMER. ITS GOING TO BE PEOPLE WHO WILL ALWAYS DISAGREE BUT I CAN SAY I ONLY GO TO RESTAURANTS WHO GIVE EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE (Black owned) AND I DON’T MIND SPENDING MONEY AND TIPPING. FOR THOSE RESTAURANTS WHEN MY FAMILY OR FRIENDS COME VISIT THOSE ARE THE RESTAURANTS WE GO TO OR I SHARE ON MY SOCIAL. I LOVE THIS EPISODE❤❤❤❤❤ THIS IS MUCH NEEDED BECAUSE THESE ARE MY FEELINGS. 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 I EVEN SAID TO SOME SERVERS WILL THEY BE WILLING TO RELOCATE TO A DIFFERENT STATE WHEN I MOVE AND OPEN MY BUSINESS. (Relocation fee will be provided)

[@CorneliaS0308]

Well said that’s why since the pandemic I taught myself to be more obedient with when I go out to eat and now cook 90% of the time these days. You hit all key points

[@latajoh]

I definitely cook more because I don't know what kind of dog chit these restaurants and fast food places serving.

[@infamousdiva7]

protect keith lee at all cost

[@joanvenice503]

When I watched Keith Lee's reviews, he indicated he will tell us the good and the bad. He said he does not give only good reviews, he gives " honest" reviews.

[@KekeIdoLoveMe]

Q said all the things I’ve been saying since FOREVER! When I went down to TTU and got my degree in Hospitality Management, they taught me all about how to operate a whole restaurant business and then some. Everyone thinks that just because they came into some $ they can just run and open up a restaurant on any given Sunday. Not so! So busy trying to nickel and dime folks, they end up running themselves right out of business.

[@classic222]

I used to work for Jack in the box as a inspector for customer service and review food quality. They didn’t know who I was nor when I was coming to ensure the experience was standard every time. If a fast food chain could invest in making sure their food/service is standard quality, there’s no excuse for any other restaurant if they cared for a successful, long lasting business

[@turonhayes1518]

EXACTLY!!!✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@rayy4pres194]

There it is! Thank you for this insight.

[@Shakerattlelove]

Reminds me when I went to main event in Atlanta we waited 45 mins for the server to come to us and take our order, then brought our food before our drinks we didn't get drinks until our food was almost gone, mouth beyond dry. It was like a horrible 2 hour experience. We were at a big group event and were riding with friends or else I wouldn't been left. Just truly unacceptable. I went to another bowling establishment in Atlanta and put my food order in before the kitchen closed. They forgot to put my food order in. Shut the kitchen down and then the manager came out and told me she would give me a discount on another food item that didn't require the stove. I said you're going to make me pay for something I didn't order when I put my order in on time????? No ma'am that's on the house!! Atlanta be on some other stuff but black owned restaurants in general are below the industry standard in general Spent over 80 bucks at Blaze as a single person I was like daaaang okay But okay my rant is over!

[@yudivazquez1296]

Thank you Que for being honest. I’ve never had a good experience at a black establishment (I’m in Virginia). Usually over priced, shitty service, attitude. Thank you for calling out these folks!

[@OakCliffTX]

Wow, never? Thats awful. I hope 1 day you have a good experience. So many great minority owned reataurants/businesses in this country.

[@fah232]

Come visit New Orleans, we have a lot of great black owned restaurants. Sorry for your experience.

[@NajeesVirtualRestaurantLounge]

Mama J’s in Richmond was okay!! kind pricey but the wait wasn’t long .

[@joyellejohnson4576]

I went and GRADUATED culinary school in 1995. I've been in this business for a long time and have worked in every aspect of the hospitality/ service industry. I agree with your videos, and it's a shame folks thing running a restaurant is so easy. You do go to school to learn, you acquire a degree in restaurant management. You should know the steps of service. There's a Restaurant Association and sets the standards. Black businesses just need to do better amd hire competent caring staff that are passionate about what they do. Experience is key.

[@tonyaclaiborne727]

P😊

[@realestatetaxesandmore8979]

Black culture has to whole itself accountable as well. We are at a place where most are accepting these over priced tickets just to feel better than. It’s not just in the restaurant industry. I’ve seen too many times where people will speak out against these charges that we are seeing from our own people, and you see a huge response coming from the better than group; calling everyone poor if they don’t want to pay these high prices

[@parisiansmakeuptravellife4697]

Milk and Honey said no substitutions but refuse to take the cream sauce off, which is on everything, even for dietary issues. Glad their review was accurate. Kitchen and Kocktails cocktail prices are ridiculous. Definitely giving high end steakhouse prices without high end steakhouse atmosphere

[@ccpitts770]

You better preach!!

[@NannaP27]

K&K in Chicago will never see me again.

[@ShixB]

That's maddening. Just order something else. Just silly policies.

[@whatwassaid2314]

Keith Lee, my Detroit brother, did his big one! He, and God, is amazing!!! 😉

[@ritaree123]

Amen 🙏🏾 Amen 🙏🏾 Amen 🙏🏾

[@LalaLoopsey-ui5wz]

I think for Keith Lee, he wants everyone to treated equally and regardless of status. To be honest your regular everyday people are going to be your primary support of your business. It is not the celebrities that are complaining about the services, it is your regular everyday patron. Don’t just be nice because someone has money.

[@soul-o-traveler695]

I am SO GLAD that Funky addressed this madness. I've been home in Atlanta for a few months after living abroad for YEARS and the way these restaurants and lounges are behaving has me livid!!! Sub par food and drinks couples with insane prices makes me want to boycott the entire industry. I've eaten in many countries, some of the best restaurants in the "IT" places and have NEVER experienced this bougie behavior. It's pissing me off so bad! Enough already. Back to customer service and genuine experiences for hard working patrons. DAMN! 😡

[@sesshomarusfan]

Ohhh I’m real early and I’m so glad this being talked about! People work too hard for their money to be treated any kind of way when they finally get a chance to go out and enjoy a break! Shout out to Keith lee

[@JayTheeA]

Baby EARLY. And its piece of 30 minutes?? Just what I need to get me through my work day!

[@decamc1435]

You finished strong!!!! This was very fair, balanced and informational.

[@dm4140]

The common theme of black owned restaurants is to purely be rich and famous. Not quality food and service. Like are yall not pursing greatness??? Kandi's response was trash. Address how your staff was ready to sit Keith before customers and give him STATUS treatment!! Someone said thats what happens when you pay for a restaurant so your man can be a boss😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 Honestly I'm glad we are moving away from idolizing celebs.

[@lennaedaley8676]

I know we are specifically talking about the black community but I feel like that with most things these days people do businesses because it's a Money grab not because they want to offer something of quality.

[@Lay__Loves]

​@@lennaedaley8676and is!

[@ivy1908pearl]

👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@leggs4113]

Now Funky I’m with you when you are right but Keith is a good dude. He was simply stating his experience. He’s big on paying for his food and simply stating his experience.

[@monetc.7274]

Right Keith never said he doesn’t give real and/or negative reviews. He said he didn’t want his viewers leaving negative comments. I don’t think Funky even heard the video clearly

[@kimberlyb6522]

I don’t think y’all listened to the full video 😕

[@kevinjohnson4877]

@@kimberlyb6522right 😂 cuz what

[@TheTaydemar]

I love how you broke down everything consumers complaint about when dealing with OUR people. Had to share your video!❤

[@natashajsworldovercomers266]

I laughed so hard because you telling the truth…these restaurants are more scared of Keith Lee than the health department 😂😂😂😂❤❤❤❤❤

[@hadassahanna711]

I laughed at that too!! 😂😂😂

[@jackofalltrades1485]

I honestly never knew who he was but now I’m Going to follow Keith Lee

[@leoqueen300]

👁 👁 👄 Yeah me🙋🏽‍♀️too

[@rw7712]

Your idea regarding the development of a restaurant board is an EXCELLENT suggestion. I just moved to Atlanta less than a year ago from Chicago, and the restaurant experience here has been mediocre at best. I truly hope that things get better because I enjoy date night which was a weekly standard prior to relocating. Oh, and yes, The Real Milk and Honey will never see a dime of my money because of the response to Keith Lee's visit.

[@TiktokTownhall]

With my global HR experience, I don't think Kandi should have 2-5 restaurants if they arent able to fulling staff each location or arent able to properly able to handle the demand (failing health inspections, no takeouts, long wait time) AND IF demand is too much, they should have a "reservations only". But with reservations only, the ambiance, menu, and experience would need to be higher quality. OLG's building isn't big enough for the location (College Park) That Plaza is so hectic and crowded, it's insane!

[@ShixB]

I think that he went to the other location of OLG.

[@kimberlyb6522]

Agreed. There are chefs and potential concepts that would THRIVE. People are only flocking to these places bc of “celebs”, reality TV, and social media. These celebs are just throwing places together…

[@slimtrain]

Kandi’s response was a lazy one. She losing more money by not allowing her customers to do takeout orders. She could have gave it some thought and said we’re working on making that happen in the future.

[@t8styc8kz]

why would she say that if he ain't? She doesn't do it on weekends.

[@chrystalswanson2591]

They do takeout during the week, but not on the busy weekend. There’s some Soul food places in Cali that don’t do takeout on Sundays

[@nomdeguerre247]

​@@chrystalswanson2591Coming back to the point on blk owned services 😒

[@chellanekrukar4869]

Thank u, Funky....message well received. This young man is 100% correct. And I wish him the continued best....Period🥰😇

[@ebonyevaughn]

Also as far as Kandi’s response, as someone who lives in Texas that frequents ATL often, one thing I love to do is go to OLG to get me some of that good ole peach cobbler bread pudding and it has ALWAYS made me feel some type of way that you can’t place to go orders and half the time need a reservation if you don’t want to wait at the door half your life. Hiring 1-2 extra people to handle to go orders would probably be good for business. She could probably cut down on the sit in traffic, reducing the ridiculously long lines and wait times and pull in more revenue… if they get a generator too.

[@ccpitts770]

She needs a food truck and smaller menu for to go orders. I was a server then bartender for 10 years in Atlanta. The BO restaurants here suck; not all but most

[@teeb.7315]

The generator is a city issue. The street is not allowed to have generators because Peters Street is considered a Historical section. Todd made a joke and y'all ran with that. He was lightening the situation.

[@byrddi_tube3182]

Good commentary Q… 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 I’m tired of throwing my money away for trash food.

[@michelleestelle2443]

Keith Lee told the truth!!!!!!!! A review is a review and he spoke about his experience!!!!

[@aran08504]

This commentary was 100% on point. Kandi missing out on the bag or having to go orders. Let another lockdown happen she will wish she had her take out operation up and running. Who said Keith Lee is artistic ? That’s cold blood.

[@CaliDiva82]

She said on the weekends I’m assuming she does during the weekdays.

[@allthewayupnorth_8155]

She's not missing a bag by not accepting takeout orders on the weekends, she's doing what's best for her employees, customers, and ultimately her business. Stop comparing OLG to chain restaurants, they're not the same.

[@30somethingg]

I agree with everything you said, except for Keith Lee’s method. If you e been watching him for a long time he rates restaurants on service, food, and marketing. The reason for that is because he initially started his reviews to help those restaurants with great food but no customers due to their service or lack of marketing. He wants to get a real experience to rate for the everyday customer, not based on who he is. It’s one thing to give celebrities special treatment, it’s another to do that while treating your everyday paying customer like trash.

[@momoshiggles3631]

I completely agree. I just commented this as a reply to someone else’s comment.

[@DoYouEvenRift]

This is one of the best rants i have ever seen

[@unambiguousdarkskinbeauty]

Funky made an excellent point about striving for industry protocol (IP). I made the terrible mistake of believing I was above IP, and my business had suffered greatly because of it. 😢

[@ccpitts770]

I'm glad you learned this valuable lesson!

[@unambiguousdarkskinbeauty]

@@ccpitts770 thank you ❤️ I hope others will learn from my mistake

[@dotlee]

You’re honesty is refreshing I hope that things got better for you.

[@unambiguousdarkskinbeauty]

@@dotlee thank you so much, and it did get better. ❤️

[@sshence9108]

Dineva you hit the mail on the head with this one. Poor customer service is one of my biggest pet peeves!

[@libramonroe3045]

I went to Atlanta this past summer and I can't say any place I went the food/service was spectacular except the sandwich I got from Publix. They tack an automatic 18% to ALL bills single or group. Then have the nerve to pass you the tablet to pay already on the tip page. Skip. The restaurant acting like they don't know that manager and never heard of her is comical. Keith Lee is a gem. He's saying what we're thinking.

[@HappyJoyousFreeMD]

Not the sandwich from Publix!! 😂😂😂