Uprooting American Cuisine with Style

For two years now Uproot Restaurant has been shouting its mission to anyone who cares to listen: "A fresh perspective on inspired fare."

This unique restaurant, in the Corner Village at Warren, maintains a brilliant dining experience Monday through Saturday, while creating chic and unconventional lunches, dinners and desserts.

General manager Dan McGill, who started in December as a bartender, says he appreciates the upward mobility that he has experienced.

"It's a little more stressful," McGill admitted. "I miss being behind the bar."

The bar and atmosphere at Uproot is not to be compared to that of any other I have ever seen. The first thing I noticed as I opened the door was the strong smell of some unnamed delicious food. It was quiet for lunchtime, but nonetheless, the environment was comfortable.

McGill held that his chief priority is "to ensure customer satisfaction." I could see that instantly from his conversation with the customers at the bar and his outgoing personality. I find that one-to-one customer service is highly underrated and, when executed correctly, it really makes a difference.

Evan Dalsass, a captain (promoted from server), says that he loves to make people happy, and "provide good food and wine." This alone puts Uproot above all others in their dedication to the customers and their pride in positive reviews.

Dalsass also commented on the uniform he wears. It's a white shirt, black pants, black shoes, and a vest and (red) tie that is provided by the restaurant. When I walked in and saw all of the servers walking in around in this get-up, I thought "Wow, this place is really classy." And just like in any other situation, a first impression is important. The interior design is magnificent and the seating was so inviting and unbelievably comfortable.

But as any business owner knows, there are always disgruntled customers, and employees need to know exactly how to deal with them.

"In calm, caring way," said Dalsass. "I'd do anything I could to appease them."

Dalsass also had expert advice for other frontline employees in the restaurant business.

"Time management is key. On a busy night, get to every table and make sure every one is happy."

He then went on to say that talking to the customers makes them feel more relaxed, and probably more likely to come back again.

THE VERDICT

(From 1-10, 1 being the worst, 10 being the best)

Work Experience: 9

Obviously the restaurant business is never going to be easy for the servers and bartenders, but Uproot definitely made an effort to lighten the load. They have a point system that rewards workers for knowledge of the menus and for stellar customer service. Their points are multiplied by hours worked which equals their total pay.

Atmosphere: 10

Like I said, the restaurant was very aesthetically pleasing. There was soft, quiet music and the subtle aromas got my mouth watering.

Customer Loyalty: 7.5

I have not heard of anyone being terribly upset with their experience at Uproot. Although the food is priced fairly high, that is to be expected from almost any business renting space in Warren.