I frequently recall great times with my grandparents. Trips, talks and even those times when I enjoyed a meal out with both of them. Our 'go to' place was Alpine Restaurant inside the Creston Park Mall. While the restaurant name is the first thing I remember, a quick second is Rose. Why Rose? She was a staple at Alpine and she was one of the few people I knew that could keep the banter going with my grandpa. She's always gave him a hard time…in good way of course. Thinking back, I wonder how she did what she did for so long?
Today, I like to observe the role of a waiter, waitress and server when I am out to lunch or dinner. I do not take their job lightly. Running from table to table, having a wide range of personalities, juggling orders, making sure drinks are full and asking how everyone at the table is doing. Maybe counseling 101 should be a requirement? I can imagine the various responses and personalities they encounter throughout the day.
While the food was good at Alpine I am fairly confident that my grandparents frequented the restaurant for the hospitality. The food was secondary. I know I was disappointed when we stopped and Rose wasn't working. The food — the experience wasn't the same.
My wife and I have a go-to place for dinner. Whenever we get a chance we visit Cozy Inn. The food is incredible but what makes the meal is the wonderful hospitality that Amanda, Julie and the rest of the crew offer. There hasn't been a single visit where we walked out disappointed. Consistency in food is one thing. Consistency in service makes me want to come back.
I know everyone has 'their place' and their favorite waiter or waitress. Which restaurant do you and your family gravitate to in the Janesville area and who do you love to see when you sit down?
