"Fast forward to yesterday, after receiving all the RSVPs, I called to confirm last-minute details. I ordered the pizzas, informed them that we would have 35 guests, and asked whether we needed plates and if they could store an ice cream cake for us. Everything was confirmed as fine.
I arrived at 1:30 PM to set up decorations and was shocked to find another party already seated at our reserved area, with pizzas being served. I explained to the staff that I was there for the 2 PM party and that I had previously been told I could come in early since no party was booked before or after us. The gentleman seemed confused and told me they were going to move us to a small corner with just four tables and four chairs. I was stunned—how could they expect a party of 35 to fit in such a cramped space?
When I asked to speak to the manager, the staff member claimed he was essentially the manager. I stepped outside to make a few calls, feeling at a loss just 30 minutes before the party. Everybody was already committed; I couldn't cancel or change locations. Upon returning, another gentleman approached and admitted it was their mistake, but the other party wouldn't leave until at least 2:30 PM, if they hurried them along. I found it frustrating that they seemed to prioritize the other group—who happened to be acquaintances of theirs—over our booking, which I had made a month prior.
With just five minutes to spare, we hastily pushed tables together and put up decorations as guests began to arrive. While we managed to make it work, the space they provided was cramped and not suitable for a birthday party. The arcade area was overcrowded due to both parties being present, so many of my son's friends couldn't enjoy themselves.
Lastly, even though we decided to stay and make the best of it, they did nothing to accommodate us further. We were charged full price for all the pizzas we ordered. I regret choosing Pizza Factory, especially since my son selected it for the convenience of his school friends. After this experience, I will stick to hosting birthdays at Round Table. Pizza Factory has lost my business completely and I will not recommend them to anyone."
