★★★★★
I was really looking forward to music bingo, but unfortunately our experience left us feeling so uncomfortable that we decided to leave without having ordered anything.
My friend ordered a drink and was asked for two pieces of ID. She provided her passport but didn't have a second physical piece. She accepted the decision immediately, said it was no problem, and wasn't going to order a drink. She even asked if a photo of her second ID would work, and when told no, again responded politely and accepted it.
Despite there being no argument or pushback on our end, the manager sat down at our table and she proceeded to give us a lengthy, condescending explanation of liquor laws, even though we had already accepted the decision (I've also been in the industry for 15+ years). It felt unnecessary and patronizing.
As the conversation ended, the manager told me I wasn't allowed to have my water bottle at the table and that it had to be taken to the bar. Looking around, I noticed several other tables also had water bottles. When I asked why mine was being singled out, I was met with a dismissive response. Later, the server even came over to attempt to remove my bottle because she had been instructed to do so, I had pointed out that multiple other guests also had water bottles and if they were going to be asked to have them removed from the tables. The manager came back and escalated the matter further, leaving us feeling extremely singled out.
To make matters worse, the manager repeatedly caressed my friend's back while speaking with her, which made my friend very uncomfortable.
I understand businesses have policies regarding ID and outside beverages, and we had no issue respecting those policies. What was disappointing was the inconsistent enforcement and the way we were treated throughout the interaction. We came to enjoy music bingo, but instead left feeling singled out, uncomfortable, and very unwelcome.
Unfortunately, this isn't my first negative experience here. About a month ago, my friend and I waited roughly 25 minutes before anyone greeted our table. We ordered drinks, waited another 30 minutes, and when another server checked on us, they discovered our order had never even been entered. After waiting close to an hour without receiving anything we'd ordered, we decided to leave.
I understand that mistakes happen, and one bad experience can be forgiven. However, after this most recent visit, I no longer feel comfortable returning.
I won't be coming back, and unfortunately I can't recommend this establishment based on my experiences.
★★★★★
Overall the Witch is good. I like the casual atmosphere. Ive been coming here for 8+ years.
Im a craft beer guy and on that front this place wins. Tons of taps, some rotating. Really good.
The Witch used to have larger portions, but has reduced those back. Not a bad thing - but the quality of the food has gone down in relation to other pubs in Maple Ridge in the last two years.
We had dry ribs today. They were small, overcooked, more bone than meat, and over salted with their signature spice.
Waitresses are always on point - attentive, but not overbearing.
Prices are lower than other pubs in MR for the same food, but the quality gone down.
Would love to see you folks get back to where you were - best casual pubfare in MR.
★★★★★
We wanted to try a new place and we were sold on the idea of "beer and bistro". However, I'd say this place is more reflective of a pub than a bistro. The the food was completely overpriced for the quality or taste. Everything tasted like it was ripped out of a plastic bag and put into a deep fryer. I wouldn't waste my money again.
