What a disappointing response, below, from the owner/management team here. The assertions below are incorrect, which is why I am again taking the time out of my lovely Gold Coast holiday to write this - there was no unacceptable behaviour on our part, only valid criticism (we then paid and left). And the innocent customer nearby was not encouraging calm or attempting to ‘diffuse’ the situation - he was expressing his kind support of us!!!!!!!
Clearly La Calabrese cannot accept any form of criticism - there appears to be a pattern here, if one considers many of the other negative reviews below (criticisms are offered by patrons; La Calabrese then appears to become defensive; disingenuous assertions are then made in respect of the patron’s behaviour etc).
Absolutely appalling treatment and response.
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“La Calabrese Italian Restaurant Breakfast and Dinner (owner)
18 hours ago
Hi Michael,
As we mentioned to your friend Ben under his review, we understand your frustration over the unavailability of gluten-free pasta. However, your behavior towards our staff and the innocent customer nearby, who simply encouraged calm, was unacceptable.
Our menu offers a variety of gluten-free options, including 6 entrees, 3 appetizers, 2 mains (please note the chicken roll was removed weeks ago, not just yesterday), 3 sides, 14 gluten-free pizzas, and 2 desserts. Despite these choices, you and your friend insisted solely on the gluten-free pasta, which was unfortunately sold out that evening. While we are not exclusively a pasta restaurant, we take pride in offering a well-rounded selection of gluten-free dishes to accommodate a range of dietary needs.
Our staff made every effort to explain the situation and offered alternatives, but your reaction escalated unnecessarily. The customer waiting for takeaway kindly tried to diffuse the situation, only to be met with rudeness.
We do not tolerate such behavior towards our staff or other guests, as we strive to create a positive and welcoming environment for everyone.
We hope you find a dining experience that better aligns with your preferences.”
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If you require gluten-free food, BEWARE - only very limited options are available here DESPITE what the menu describes. You also cannot rely upon staff to clearly articulate what is/is not available. We made a booking based upon the relevant menu, which was then different to when we arrived (prices also appeared to be different). A gluten-free Tagliata as well as a GF Chicken Rolle - all no longer available as the menu that is on the website is no longer relevant and also less expensive. No GF pasta was available. We were not advised of any of this, when we sat down, in respect of what was/wasn't available.
Note - if you currently download the dinner menu, it WILL be incorrect as at this time/date.
We were clearly disappointed with the offerings available - we then paid for what we actually could have and left. Despite this, the staff at the front desk were too busy bickering and gossiping - not a care was ultimately given.
Terrible experience.