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I generally follow the 15-minute rule. If I'm not acknowledged with something as simple as "Welcome," "How are you?," "Can I get you a menu?" or "I'll be right with you," I leave. Basic hospitality should never be optional.
I genuinely love the ambiance of Holy Ghost, which is why this is so disappointing. Unfortunately, atmosphere alone cannot overcome consistently poor service.
My family has owned a major nightclub in Portland as well as multiple Greek restaurants, so I understand firsthand that customer service begins with leadership. I've visited Holy Ghost three separate times, and each visit has been the same experience: no greeting, prolonged silence from the bartender, and staff more focused on their phones than the guests in front of them.
This isn't simply an issue with individual employees. It reflects a breakdown in training, standards, and management. Those responsibilities ultimately fall on the General Manager and leadership team.
I've seen Holy Ghost packed, but being busy should never be confused with providing excellent hospitality. Some of Portland's smallest dive bars consistently deliver warmer, more attentive service than I've experienced here. That's a difficult comparison to make because this bar has so much potential.
I hope ownership takes an honest look at the guest experience. A great concept deserves a team that's just as committed to hospitality as the space itself
