Ioanni's Grill - Morehead City

I recently hosted a wonderful party for more than 50 guests at Raps, and it was an amazing experience! The food and service were exceptional, and everyone remarked that it was the best party they had ever attended. I really enjoy their laid-back menu, and the staff is consistently friendly. It feels like a place where, much like at Cheers, everyone knows your name.

I visited last night to celebrate a friend's birthday. She called ahead to ask if she needed to make a reservation, and they told her it was only necessary for parties of 20 or more. When we arrived, some members of our group had already secured a table. However, since we were not seated by one of the wait staff, they insisted we had to move. The restaurant was not full, with plenty of open tables available. We decided to wait at the bar, but after sitting there for an hour and a half, we still did not get a table. While at the bar, I ordered three shots that cost me $18. Given that they weren’t top-shelf, I politely asked the bartender why they were so expensive. That apparently prompted her to go get her manager. He approached me and accused me of cursing at his bartenders, which was completely untrue. He seemed intent on starting a conflict. I turned my back to him twice and tried to ignore him, but he kept provoking me. I've never encountered such rudeness towards paying customers before, and I will never return to this establishment. Honestly, it’s not that impressive to begin with. Eventually, our group left and headed to The Ice House, where they seated us immediately. We all enjoyed fantastic meals and received excellent service from their staff. We even experienced some great magic by Chuck, and our waitress, Melody, was exceptional.