We went here tonight for my birthday dinner and, as usual, the food was delicious. The lobster mashed potatoes were awesome, as were the lobster tails, crablegs, salmon, various shrimp dishes, scallops and flounder. The highlight of our meal was our fantastic server, Hassan H. He was extremely personable, attentive and professional. It's so nice when your server makes you feel like you're their only table and takes the time to be friendly. I wish all servers were as warm and inviting. It was a wonderful birthday dinner, indeed.
(5)
Hannah W.
When we arrived the restaurant was only half full and they told us there would be a 90 minute wait. We luckily (or what we thought) found seats at the bar. We didn't get acknowledged until we had been sitting there for 20 minutes. In the first hour we were there we saw 2 different groups at the bar come in and go due to lack of service at the bar, 3 groups have complaints about their to go orders, and multiple groups leave at the front due to all the open tables. The staff did not wash their hands (one reason a group left) and they were not washing and sanitizing the bar glasses (another reason a group left). Finally at 9PM they had someone come and wish the mound of bar glasses due to the fact the bartenders wouldn't pour any "clean" drinks for over an hour. Working in a restaurant for 5 years this is some of the worst service from the staff to the management I have ever witnessed. My suggestion is to find a different restaurant or drive to the other location and try your luck!
(1)
Ben A.
Seriously, I don't want to give it a three. I fell in love with the one in Orlando, and that's why I went to the ones in here. But it was soooo saulty, I hate it.
(3)
Bobby N.
Yup. Four stars :-) I've got a three year old so seafood fine dining isn't exactly going to happen on a family night out. Not for a least a few more years. My wife loves crab. Daddy loves lobster! RL can get us both of those things. Now what I found to be incredibly shocking, is that I could come here and get a damn good steak. For a while, the NY strip with the lobster and crab Oscar was my absolute favorite. Now I am sure it can't hold a candle to M&S or Pierponts. But I can't really see myself being at one of those places, two bites into my meal and needing my dinner packed up because daddy's princess is having a surprise meltdown. That has actually happened to us here... TWICE. On both of those visits we actually had the same server, who packed up our meals with a smile. Lucky for us, she's waited on is several times and has always given us exemplary service. At RL, you can count on leftovers. You can count on fresh lobster (kill one from the tank. That's what they are there for!) and you can count on those damn biscuits!
(4)
David M.
Service was slow, but okay. The portion size for my crab cake and salmon was really small for the money I paid. This restaurant could be so much better!
(3)
Kay L.
Okay, people, everybody knows you don't go to Red Lobster for premium seafood. You go to Red Lobster for something easy that isn't going to break the bank. The Guy & I shared an Ultimate Seafood Feast -- that, + appetizer + drinks + tip, set us back less than $50. Where else are two people going to be able to eat lobster & crab legs for that price? It was a ton of food, too, we just barely finished everything. That being said, the whole experience was kind of mediocre. Salad was boring iceberg with a slice of tomato. The lobster was sweet, but the broccoli side consisted of three or four sad, oversteamed florets, as if the chef had decided everyone was there for the fish & he wasn't even going to try on the sides. The service was a bit slow, but friendly enough. This place is always packed on the weekends, so there's obviously plenty of folks that think this is just fine. You'd probably be doing yourself a favor, though, if you steered away from the crowd & tried something off the beaten path. Unless you are just plain craving the cheddar biscuits, which happens sometimes.
(2)
Jacqueline T.
Sat at the bar on NYE and James was an amazing server/bartender. The only negative part of my experience was that the young guy at the front desk erased our name from the list to be seated when he saw us drinking and eating at the bar. He assumed we were going to stay there without asking us :/ Luckily, James gave us a great experience that made up for it. It was a very busy night that evening, but he and the girl that was working with him made it seem like it was a piece of a cake :)
(4)
Bill B.
If you are looking for something like Bristol's, this isn't for you. But if you are looking for fresh seafood, fast service, ordinary preparations, and reasonable prices, you might like it a lot. We were there on a very busy holiday, but we were seated and served rapidly. I was impressed. The fish was fresh, and all was fine. But upscale, it is not. They had "sunshine bass" on the menu. I asked two of the servers what it was. Neither knew. One went back to the kitchen, and came back with an explanation --- which was wrong. We ordered a bottle of wine. The server didn't have a clue about how to serve wine, so I told her not to serve it and leave the bottle on the table for me to deal with. It was fine. Maybe I should have left a tip for myself for serving the wine. This Red Lobster is like all of them. They are very successful at what they do. In fact I wish there were one in Lawrence. But Red Lobster is not my kind of place.
(3)
Jen D.
I'm not going to lie. Yesterday we ate at Red Lobster. A week or so ago my bf and I were talking about those delicious cheesy garlic biscuits. Then a coupon for RL showed up in my inbox. So, yesterday, we indulged our craving and headed out for lunch. First off, our server was awesome. Her name was Krystall and she was so friendly and upbeat. She must have known we were there for the biscuits because she brought us a million, and they were straight out of the oven. Still hot, delicious, yummy.... Let's face it, the rest of the meal doesn't even matter. Those biscuits were damn good.
(3)
Erin W.
Lobster good. Shrimp good. Chocolate Molten Cookie...holy moly I'm in love! Little expensive but for the heavenly dessert I had, I'll indulge every once in awhile!
(5)
Meredith S.
My aunt loves the coconut shrimp at Red Lobster. Going on eighty-one years old when she comes to visit me I'll eat anywhere she wants to eat! I was amazed at how tasty the food was and our waiter, Dan was excellent. The parking lot was full on Saturday night at 5pm. Full. Packed. Waiting line to get in. I've never seen a Red Lobster so busy. We lucked out as our dining friend had gotten there early and put us on the list. The wait was short...maybe 10 minutes. Auntie:Coconut shrimp....and a box full leftover to eat later. Dining Friend: All you can eat shrimp...she loved it and was stuffed when we left. Me: I ate from the appetizer menu and got the sampler platter....stuffed mushrooms, shrimp cocktail, and coconut shrimp. It was the perfect size meal, tasty and the sauce for the coconut shrimp was sweet with pineapple but a nice combination with the shrimp. I added a side salad and it was fresh with lots of veggies. The biscuits were good. The raspberry tea left a lot to be desired. The service was good and the price was reasonable. The restaurant was clean and so were the restrooms. Based on other reviews here, I'd say Red Lobster at this location has made some major changes in management and staffing. We did not encounter any of the same things the other reviewers have written about. Perhaps Red Lobster upper management reads these YELP reviews and takes what we say seriously?
(4)
Emily M.
We usually go to the Olathe South Red Lobster but this location was more centrally located to meet for Mother's Day. Let me say for a restaurant chain these two locations could not be more different. We LOVE the Olathe location. The servers are amazing, the manager is awesome and the experience is all together great. This Overland Park location well did not live up to my Red Lobster expectations. we arrived at 4:50 and was told we would have a 20-30 minute wait for our party of 6. We waited on the benches outside the door and our pager kept beeping that we were out of range. There are only 2 benches to wait inside so we just had to stand. After 45 minutes of waiting we were seated. Our table was only set for 5 and we asked for another set of silverware we did not get them until we asked 3 times. We did receive hot and fresh biscuits after sitting down which was great after the wait. Now we waited again. FOR THE SECOND TIME! 45 minutes later 2 of our party received their meals. Waiting again for another 5 minutes the rest of us got our meals. Everything was mildly warm and the cheese and butter was coagulated. The server, Sylvia, did keep the refills of soft drinks and water coming. However, she just did not seem happy to be there. No conversation outside of the food. We had to ask for butter twice again. Towards the end of the meal a table in the same area broke a glass. Instead of making sure the area was safe there was no urgency to pick up the glass. When we did finally get out of there a guy was sitting on the benches. When we walked by he was getting the number to Olive Garden. My husband said to him, "good choice". I agree.
(2)
Veronica H.
My fiance and I have been to this Red Lobster twice and both times we have had *exceptional* service. Both servers we had were awesome. I really wish I remembered their names so we could request them whenever we get around to going again. Friendly, prompt, thorough. This last time we went, it was to celebrate my birthday and graduation. They gave me a free dessert (fairly typical, I know) but they also printed cards for each event and had a bunch of staff members sign them. I had no idea Red Lobster did this. When they gave them to me, it didn't feel weird at all, it was great that I felt like everyone was happy for me. Our orders have always been correct and well prepared. Always have drinks refilled, plenty of biscuits... As far as chain joints go, I haven't been more impressed than when I've come here.
(5)
Nicole F.
I haven't eaten at a Red Lobster in more than a decade. This was a celebration for my grandfather's 80th birthday and he chose the venue. Well, I was pleasantly surprised. Krystal was our server and she was great. I consider myself a big city girl and I was impressed with the food and the service. Large portions - we had lots of leftovers. The lobster tacos weren't bad but you really couldn't taste the lobster through the cheese. The New England Sampler was a really good value and the scallops were prepared better than at some upscale restaurants. It was crowded but we were seated quickly. The only disappointment was the langostino baked potato at an additional charge of $3.99. That definitely wasn't worth it, as the regular mashed potatoes are just as good. We sampled both fried and grilled seafood and it was all great. While I think they should have offered the birthday cake gratis, it was still a good dining experience.
(4)
Green D.
I've eaten at this chain in Vegas and in Overland Park; both cities show consistency with quality of food, service, and value. I recently sat at the bar in Overland Park while James was behind the bar. I have no complaints and applaud his wonderful heart for service and hospitality. They get 5 stars for the casual dining segment.
(5)
Deborah H.
Try as I might, I just can't find anything that tastes like the pictures in their ads. There are much better seafood places in Kansas City to waste time at Red Lobster!
(2)
Esther Y.
I've had a Yelp account since July 2010 but this is the first time that the service at a restaurant has shocked and appalled me so much that I felt compelled to write a review. I've been coming to this Red Lobster for probably over 20 years, ever since I was a little kid, and I've always loved it. But after coming back after a couple years away at college, to put it bluntly, things have gone to utter shit. Now they serve the cheddar bay biscuits with your salad so you're starving while waiting for your food and so you're not able to eat as many biscuits. I asked for some extra since we were all very hungry and there were only enough for each person to have 1.5. Then the server rudely told me there were already some on the table, as if I couldn't see them. But that's all if you're even lucky enough to even get your salad (my dad never got one, we had to specifically ask.) On top of that, they ask "Would you like a salad?" to give the false impression that the salad was an extra charge and not included with the entree and hope that some people will opt out. The food was as it always is, mostly good, but a couple of overly salty dishes, but this review isn't about the food. It's about the combination of an utter lack of anything remotely resembling customer service, oh and the little fact that the waitress/waiter (there were two for our table for some godforsaken reason & neither could keep their orders straight despite only serving 4 people each) deliberately tried to lie and rip us off. We had come in a party of 8 after my grandmother's funeral and when the check came, the waitress wrote a large THANK YOU! that completely covered the line that told us that gratuity had already been included (there was plenty of blank space elsewhere.) It is absolutely shocking and insulting that they gave us horrible service, then tried to rip us off and make us pay tip twice. This is not anywhere CLOSE to acceptable and I plan on never returning to a Red Lobster. TL;DL - This location LIES and will try and CHEAT YOU.
(1)
K G.
Horrible. Despite undergoing renovations to update the inside, this is still one of the worst places to go for food. If you're lucky enough for the host staff to acknowledge you, they treat you as an annoyance and not a customer. We had to wait 15 minutes for a table even though we could see a number of open tables that remained open the whole time we waited. Our server was decent, although not terribly friendly, but really what was awful was the food. Crab legs are the easiest thing in the world to make - just steam for like 7 minutes. How hard is that? But this "seafood" restaurant can't seem to figure it out. The kids' meals came out 5 minutes after our meals and were so hot they couldn't eat them. I wouldn't be so judgmental if this was our first bad experience, but it wasn't. I can say it will be our last.
(2)
Whitney M.
Lobster fest is terrible. I had never really ate at red lobster, and I never will again. The service (after waiting 45 min, oh after calling ahead 30 min before that) was good, but that was about it. The crab legs were un crack able due to over boiling, the end meat was still frozen, the shrimp was terrible. Pre frozen, over cooked scampi, under cooked fried shrimp, and a lobster tail that tasted like the smell of cat food dipped on salt. Even my margarita, and gin and tonic were bad. I also woke up the next day with a tummy ache. I should have known better than to visit this terrible chain, bit thought it was worth a try. Gross.
(2)
Michael W.
On the evening of March 8th my wife and I decided to dine at this Red Lobster in Overland Park. Red Lobster is not my favorite place for seafood, but here in the Midwest, you can't be too picky. We've been pretty happy with all of our Red Lobster experiences thus far, but tonight changed things. We won't return to this location again... When we entered the establishment, we were told about 25 minutes. 50 minutes later we were seated. Unacceptable; I do not mind having a wait, but be realistic with the estimates - round UP! Tell me 60 minutes and seat me in 45; I'm happy. Tell me 25 and seat me at 50 and I'm just starting the meal ticked off. This place needs and overhaul. The traffic flow inside the restaurant is horrible! There were more people waiting than were dining - we determined that all were told there was about 30 minute wait. People were waiting in the back by the restrooms, behind the bar area (typically where wait staff goes), people were outside (it was 30 degrees this evening), the bar was packed (with people waiting for tables), we even saw two people waiting back on two spare chairs at a beverage station. The booths near the bar must have had a horrible dining experience because they had to stare at people's butts the whole time -- because of all the people around the bar (did I mention, waiting for tables?). Bottom line, there was NO PLACE TO WAIT. After we got seated, our waiter was horrible. He had about what we determined to be about six tables and we did not observe one correct order come out of the kitchen. My wife ordered broccoli; he swore up and down she said French Fries (trust me, she does not care for fries). I had a 1/2 order of a crab pasta dish, it came out as a full order. We asked for additional Cheddar Biscuits (yum) and those never came. After our meal, the manager brought over our check and asked how everything was. I gave some type of lukewarm response and instead of asking what was wrong, he just proceeded to explain how the survey works that we had randomly been selected to complete -- I can't wait to take that survey; I'll do it right after my Yelp Review. Maybe we just hit this place on a down night, but our experience was bad. It seems this place has some management issues to work through. We'd recommend you take your hard earned seafood dollars elsewhere - at least to a different Red Lobster location.
(1)
Colleen O.
I agree with Michael W's assessment - dining here gets too messy, too involved at this particular locations - it's a ZOO! I just go for the biscuits - but I could do without Red Lobster, you know what I mean? That's why I make my own! Whenever I'm expected to cook something for a dinner part or a potluck, I whip these babies out and every time I get great feedback (because anyone whose had their cheddar biscuits KNOW how atypically good they actually are) - and best of all, surprisingly simple: The Red Lobster cheddar biscuit recipe: 2 c. Bisquick 2/3 c. milk 1 1/2 c. grated cheddar cheese 1/2 c. melted butter 1/4 tsp. garlic salt Mix Bisquick, milk and cheddar until a soft ball forms. You can also add a bit of the garlic salt inside the dough to make it more zesty. Beat vigorously for 30 seconds. Drop by balls onto an ungreased baking sheet and bake at 450 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes. Mix butter and garlic and brush on rolls while still on the pan and hot. ENJOY.
(3)
Jimmy N.
If you come across this review, the others are right. The Olathe location has better service, better food, and nicer atmosphere. We had a group reservation for a our 16-year old niece birthday. When arrived, water wasn't on the table until everyone showed up (30min after we seated). When my brother-in-law (the niece's father) and I ordered drinks, the waitress carded me (which I'm used to it) and carded my brother-in-law who is in his 40s. My brother-in-law doesn't even bring his ID into restaurants anymore, but the waitress insist to card him. To protect his inconvenience of him having to walk out to the car to get this ID, I explained to the waitress that he is the birthday girl's father. She still insisted to card him, really? I understand it's her job, but you can't teach common sense these days. Managers, please teach all your wait staff water etiquette (always have water ready, before the reserved large group party arrives or 2min seated rule for water) and ID etiquette (if someone fathered a 16-year old, he is older than 21). Seriously, for the price you pay here just go to Bristol.
(2)
Mackenzie C.
Red Lobster, in general, tends to get knocked for their seafood, but I think it's excellent. At this location, the drinks and food are always very good. The service is also great. There have been several occasions when I have called the manager over to my table to compliment the servers. This is probably my first choice of restaurants, and I always go on my birthday.
(5)
Chris G.
Decent food, great biscuits, and decent service (sometimes it's a hit, sometime's it's a miss). It's not gourmet, but for the most part, you aren't paying gourmet prices. The meals usually arrive in a prompt manner, my refills are usually timely. If you're in a small town in rural Kansas, this is fine dining. In the KC area, it's mid-dining. It doesn't stack up againt Bristol, McCormicks, or many others. But it is cheaper, in many ways, and you don't need to be dressed beyond a Tshirt and jeans. Celiacs beware! Do your homework and question the server/manager about the meals. Even the BROCCOLI has gluten on it! Many items have added seasoning where you wouldn't expect it (everyone knows the biscuits are off limits), and their 'menu' they currently provide is a greasy sheet of paper that has a spreadsheet that is nearly impossible to interpret or read, as it has all 'allergies' listed on one sheet, and tiny dots indicating acceptability (and all in VERY small print). A national chain can do better. Their recent announcement (Darden's) regarding changing their staffing policies so they can avoid paying insurance bothers me, too.
(3)
Courtney S.
I really only came here for the cheddar biscuits, but overall I thought the food was decent and the servers were fast and friendly. The host made us wait 20 minutes to be seated, even though there were open tables all around and it was a busy Sunday evening. Maybe they were short staffed, but I really hate seeing empty tables while being forced to wait. I ordered the popcorn shrimp and shrimp scampi combo and would get it again. This place is definitely not my first choice in seafood, but it's not bad either.
(3)
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Address :9475 Metcalf Avenue
Overland Park, KS, 66212
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Joley W.
We went here tonight for my birthday dinner and, as usual, the food was delicious. The lobster mashed potatoes were awesome, as were the lobster tails, crablegs, salmon, various shrimp dishes, scallops and flounder. The highlight of our meal was our fantastic server, Hassan H. He was extremely personable, attentive and professional. It's so nice when your server makes you feel like you're their only table and takes the time to be friendly. I wish all servers were as warm and inviting. It was a wonderful birthday dinner, indeed.
(5)Hannah W.
When we arrived the restaurant was only half full and they told us there would be a 90 minute wait. We luckily (or what we thought) found seats at the bar. We didn't get acknowledged until we had been sitting there for 20 minutes. In the first hour we were there we saw 2 different groups at the bar come in and go due to lack of service at the bar, 3 groups have complaints about their to go orders, and multiple groups leave at the front due to all the open tables. The staff did not wash their hands (one reason a group left) and they were not washing and sanitizing the bar glasses (another reason a group left). Finally at 9PM they had someone come and wish the mound of bar glasses due to the fact the bartenders wouldn't pour any "clean" drinks for over an hour. Working in a restaurant for 5 years this is some of the worst service from the staff to the management I have ever witnessed. My suggestion is to find a different restaurant or drive to the other location and try your luck!
(1)Ben A.
Seriously, I don't want to give it a three. I fell in love with the one in Orlando, and that's why I went to the ones in here. But it was soooo saulty, I hate it.
(3)Bobby N.
Yup. Four stars :-) I've got a three year old so seafood fine dining isn't exactly going to happen on a family night out. Not for a least a few more years. My wife loves crab. Daddy loves lobster! RL can get us both of those things. Now what I found to be incredibly shocking, is that I could come here and get a damn good steak. For a while, the NY strip with the lobster and crab Oscar was my absolute favorite. Now I am sure it can't hold a candle to M&S or Pierponts. But I can't really see myself being at one of those places, two bites into my meal and needing my dinner packed up because daddy's princess is having a surprise meltdown. That has actually happened to us here... TWICE. On both of those visits we actually had the same server, who packed up our meals with a smile. Lucky for us, she's waited on is several times and has always given us exemplary service. At RL, you can count on leftovers. You can count on fresh lobster (kill one from the tank. That's what they are there for!) and you can count on those damn biscuits!
(4)David M.
Service was slow, but okay. The portion size for my crab cake and salmon was really small for the money I paid. This restaurant could be so much better!
(3)Kay L.
Okay, people, everybody knows you don't go to Red Lobster for premium seafood. You go to Red Lobster for something easy that isn't going to break the bank. The Guy & I shared an Ultimate Seafood Feast -- that, + appetizer + drinks + tip, set us back less than $50. Where else are two people going to be able to eat lobster & crab legs for that price? It was a ton of food, too, we just barely finished everything. That being said, the whole experience was kind of mediocre. Salad was boring iceberg with a slice of tomato. The lobster was sweet, but the broccoli side consisted of three or four sad, oversteamed florets, as if the chef had decided everyone was there for the fish & he wasn't even going to try on the sides. The service was a bit slow, but friendly enough. This place is always packed on the weekends, so there's obviously plenty of folks that think this is just fine. You'd probably be doing yourself a favor, though, if you steered away from the crowd & tried something off the beaten path. Unless you are just plain craving the cheddar biscuits, which happens sometimes.
(2)Jacqueline T.
Sat at the bar on NYE and James was an amazing server/bartender. The only negative part of my experience was that the young guy at the front desk erased our name from the list to be seated when he saw us drinking and eating at the bar. He assumed we were going to stay there without asking us :/ Luckily, James gave us a great experience that made up for it. It was a very busy night that evening, but he and the girl that was working with him made it seem like it was a piece of a cake :)
(4)Bill B.
If you are looking for something like Bristol's, this isn't for you. But if you are looking for fresh seafood, fast service, ordinary preparations, and reasonable prices, you might like it a lot. We were there on a very busy holiday, but we were seated and served rapidly. I was impressed. The fish was fresh, and all was fine. But upscale, it is not. They had "sunshine bass" on the menu. I asked two of the servers what it was. Neither knew. One went back to the kitchen, and came back with an explanation --- which was wrong. We ordered a bottle of wine. The server didn't have a clue about how to serve wine, so I told her not to serve it and leave the bottle on the table for me to deal with. It was fine. Maybe I should have left a tip for myself for serving the wine. This Red Lobster is like all of them. They are very successful at what they do. In fact I wish there were one in Lawrence. But Red Lobster is not my kind of place.
(3)Jen D.
I'm not going to lie. Yesterday we ate at Red Lobster. A week or so ago my bf and I were talking about those delicious cheesy garlic biscuits. Then a coupon for RL showed up in my inbox. So, yesterday, we indulged our craving and headed out for lunch. First off, our server was awesome. Her name was Krystall and she was so friendly and upbeat. She must have known we were there for the biscuits because she brought us a million, and they were straight out of the oven. Still hot, delicious, yummy.... Let's face it, the rest of the meal doesn't even matter. Those biscuits were damn good.
(3)Erin W.
Lobster good. Shrimp good. Chocolate Molten Cookie...holy moly I'm in love! Little expensive but for the heavenly dessert I had, I'll indulge every once in awhile!
(5)Meredith S.
My aunt loves the coconut shrimp at Red Lobster. Going on eighty-one years old when she comes to visit me I'll eat anywhere she wants to eat! I was amazed at how tasty the food was and our waiter, Dan was excellent. The parking lot was full on Saturday night at 5pm. Full. Packed. Waiting line to get in. I've never seen a Red Lobster so busy. We lucked out as our dining friend had gotten there early and put us on the list. The wait was short...maybe 10 minutes. Auntie:Coconut shrimp....and a box full leftover to eat later. Dining Friend: All you can eat shrimp...she loved it and was stuffed when we left. Me: I ate from the appetizer menu and got the sampler platter....stuffed mushrooms, shrimp cocktail, and coconut shrimp. It was the perfect size meal, tasty and the sauce for the coconut shrimp was sweet with pineapple but a nice combination with the shrimp. I added a side salad and it was fresh with lots of veggies. The biscuits were good. The raspberry tea left a lot to be desired. The service was good and the price was reasonable. The restaurant was clean and so were the restrooms. Based on other reviews here, I'd say Red Lobster at this location has made some major changes in management and staffing. We did not encounter any of the same things the other reviewers have written about. Perhaps Red Lobster upper management reads these YELP reviews and takes what we say seriously?
(4)Emily M.
We usually go to the Olathe South Red Lobster but this location was more centrally located to meet for Mother's Day. Let me say for a restaurant chain these two locations could not be more different. We LOVE the Olathe location. The servers are amazing, the manager is awesome and the experience is all together great. This Overland Park location well did not live up to my Red Lobster expectations. we arrived at 4:50 and was told we would have a 20-30 minute wait for our party of 6. We waited on the benches outside the door and our pager kept beeping that we were out of range. There are only 2 benches to wait inside so we just had to stand. After 45 minutes of waiting we were seated. Our table was only set for 5 and we asked for another set of silverware we did not get them until we asked 3 times. We did receive hot and fresh biscuits after sitting down which was great after the wait. Now we waited again. FOR THE SECOND TIME! 45 minutes later 2 of our party received their meals. Waiting again for another 5 minutes the rest of us got our meals. Everything was mildly warm and the cheese and butter was coagulated. The server, Sylvia, did keep the refills of soft drinks and water coming. However, she just did not seem happy to be there. No conversation outside of the food. We had to ask for butter twice again. Towards the end of the meal a table in the same area broke a glass. Instead of making sure the area was safe there was no urgency to pick up the glass. When we did finally get out of there a guy was sitting on the benches. When we walked by he was getting the number to Olive Garden. My husband said to him, "good choice". I agree.
(2)Veronica H.
My fiance and I have been to this Red Lobster twice and both times we have had *exceptional* service. Both servers we had were awesome. I really wish I remembered their names so we could request them whenever we get around to going again. Friendly, prompt, thorough. This last time we went, it was to celebrate my birthday and graduation. They gave me a free dessert (fairly typical, I know) but they also printed cards for each event and had a bunch of staff members sign them. I had no idea Red Lobster did this. When they gave them to me, it didn't feel weird at all, it was great that I felt like everyone was happy for me. Our orders have always been correct and well prepared. Always have drinks refilled, plenty of biscuits... As far as chain joints go, I haven't been more impressed than when I've come here.
(5)Nicole F.
I haven't eaten at a Red Lobster in more than a decade. This was a celebration for my grandfather's 80th birthday and he chose the venue. Well, I was pleasantly surprised. Krystal was our server and she was great. I consider myself a big city girl and I was impressed with the food and the service. Large portions - we had lots of leftovers. The lobster tacos weren't bad but you really couldn't taste the lobster through the cheese. The New England Sampler was a really good value and the scallops were prepared better than at some upscale restaurants. It was crowded but we were seated quickly. The only disappointment was the langostino baked potato at an additional charge of $3.99. That definitely wasn't worth it, as the regular mashed potatoes are just as good. We sampled both fried and grilled seafood and it was all great. While I think they should have offered the birthday cake gratis, it was still a good dining experience.
(4)Green D.
I've eaten at this chain in Vegas and in Overland Park; both cities show consistency with quality of food, service, and value. I recently sat at the bar in Overland Park while James was behind the bar. I have no complaints and applaud his wonderful heart for service and hospitality. They get 5 stars for the casual dining segment.
(5)Deborah H.
Try as I might, I just can't find anything that tastes like the pictures in their ads. There are much better seafood places in Kansas City to waste time at Red Lobster!
(2)Esther Y.
I've had a Yelp account since July 2010 but this is the first time that the service at a restaurant has shocked and appalled me so much that I felt compelled to write a review. I've been coming to this Red Lobster for probably over 20 years, ever since I was a little kid, and I've always loved it. But after coming back after a couple years away at college, to put it bluntly, things have gone to utter shit. Now they serve the cheddar bay biscuits with your salad so you're starving while waiting for your food and so you're not able to eat as many biscuits. I asked for some extra since we were all very hungry and there were only enough for each person to have 1.5. Then the server rudely told me there were already some on the table, as if I couldn't see them. But that's all if you're even lucky enough to even get your salad (my dad never got one, we had to specifically ask.) On top of that, they ask "Would you like a salad?" to give the false impression that the salad was an extra charge and not included with the entree and hope that some people will opt out. The food was as it always is, mostly good, but a couple of overly salty dishes, but this review isn't about the food. It's about the combination of an utter lack of anything remotely resembling customer service, oh and the little fact that the waitress/waiter (there were two for our table for some godforsaken reason & neither could keep their orders straight despite only serving 4 people each) deliberately tried to lie and rip us off. We had come in a party of 8 after my grandmother's funeral and when the check came, the waitress wrote a large THANK YOU! that completely covered the line that told us that gratuity had already been included (there was plenty of blank space elsewhere.) It is absolutely shocking and insulting that they gave us horrible service, then tried to rip us off and make us pay tip twice. This is not anywhere CLOSE to acceptable and I plan on never returning to a Red Lobster. TL;DL - This location LIES and will try and CHEAT YOU.
(1)K G.
Horrible. Despite undergoing renovations to update the inside, this is still one of the worst places to go for food. If you're lucky enough for the host staff to acknowledge you, they treat you as an annoyance and not a customer. We had to wait 15 minutes for a table even though we could see a number of open tables that remained open the whole time we waited. Our server was decent, although not terribly friendly, but really what was awful was the food. Crab legs are the easiest thing in the world to make - just steam for like 7 minutes. How hard is that? But this "seafood" restaurant can't seem to figure it out. The kids' meals came out 5 minutes after our meals and were so hot they couldn't eat them. I wouldn't be so judgmental if this was our first bad experience, but it wasn't. I can say it will be our last.
(2)Whitney M.
Lobster fest is terrible. I had never really ate at red lobster, and I never will again. The service (after waiting 45 min, oh after calling ahead 30 min before that) was good, but that was about it. The crab legs were un crack able due to over boiling, the end meat was still frozen, the shrimp was terrible. Pre frozen, over cooked scampi, under cooked fried shrimp, and a lobster tail that tasted like the smell of cat food dipped on salt. Even my margarita, and gin and tonic were bad. I also woke up the next day with a tummy ache. I should have known better than to visit this terrible chain, bit thought it was worth a try. Gross.
(2)Michael W.
On the evening of March 8th my wife and I decided to dine at this Red Lobster in Overland Park. Red Lobster is not my favorite place for seafood, but here in the Midwest, you can't be too picky. We've been pretty happy with all of our Red Lobster experiences thus far, but tonight changed things. We won't return to this location again... When we entered the establishment, we were told about 25 minutes. 50 minutes later we were seated. Unacceptable; I do not mind having a wait, but be realistic with the estimates - round UP! Tell me 60 minutes and seat me in 45; I'm happy. Tell me 25 and seat me at 50 and I'm just starting the meal ticked off. This place needs and overhaul. The traffic flow inside the restaurant is horrible! There were more people waiting than were dining - we determined that all were told there was about 30 minute wait. People were waiting in the back by the restrooms, behind the bar area (typically where wait staff goes), people were outside (it was 30 degrees this evening), the bar was packed (with people waiting for tables), we even saw two people waiting back on two spare chairs at a beverage station. The booths near the bar must have had a horrible dining experience because they had to stare at people's butts the whole time -- because of all the people around the bar (did I mention, waiting for tables?). Bottom line, there was NO PLACE TO WAIT. After we got seated, our waiter was horrible. He had about what we determined to be about six tables and we did not observe one correct order come out of the kitchen. My wife ordered broccoli; he swore up and down she said French Fries (trust me, she does not care for fries). I had a 1/2 order of a crab pasta dish, it came out as a full order. We asked for additional Cheddar Biscuits (yum) and those never came. After our meal, the manager brought over our check and asked how everything was. I gave some type of lukewarm response and instead of asking what was wrong, he just proceeded to explain how the survey works that we had randomly been selected to complete -- I can't wait to take that survey; I'll do it right after my Yelp Review. Maybe we just hit this place on a down night, but our experience was bad. It seems this place has some management issues to work through. We'd recommend you take your hard earned seafood dollars elsewhere - at least to a different Red Lobster location.
(1)Colleen O.
I agree with Michael W's assessment - dining here gets too messy, too involved at this particular locations - it's a ZOO! I just go for the biscuits - but I could do without Red Lobster, you know what I mean? That's why I make my own! Whenever I'm expected to cook something for a dinner part or a potluck, I whip these babies out and every time I get great feedback (because anyone whose had their cheddar biscuits KNOW how atypically good they actually are) - and best of all, surprisingly simple: The Red Lobster cheddar biscuit recipe: 2 c. Bisquick 2/3 c. milk 1 1/2 c. grated cheddar cheese 1/2 c. melted butter 1/4 tsp. garlic salt Mix Bisquick, milk and cheddar until a soft ball forms. You can also add a bit of the garlic salt inside the dough to make it more zesty. Beat vigorously for 30 seconds. Drop by balls onto an ungreased baking sheet and bake at 450 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes. Mix butter and garlic and brush on rolls while still on the pan and hot. ENJOY.
(3)Jimmy N.
If you come across this review, the others are right. The Olathe location has better service, better food, and nicer atmosphere. We had a group reservation for a our 16-year old niece birthday. When arrived, water wasn't on the table until everyone showed up (30min after we seated). When my brother-in-law (the niece's father) and I ordered drinks, the waitress carded me (which I'm used to it) and carded my brother-in-law who is in his 40s. My brother-in-law doesn't even bring his ID into restaurants anymore, but the waitress insist to card him. To protect his inconvenience of him having to walk out to the car to get this ID, I explained to the waitress that he is the birthday girl's father. She still insisted to card him, really? I understand it's her job, but you can't teach common sense these days. Managers, please teach all your wait staff water etiquette (always have water ready, before the reserved large group party arrives or 2min seated rule for water) and ID etiquette (if someone fathered a 16-year old, he is older than 21). Seriously, for the price you pay here just go to Bristol.
(2)Mackenzie C.
Red Lobster, in general, tends to get knocked for their seafood, but I think it's excellent. At this location, the drinks and food are always very good. The service is also great. There have been several occasions when I have called the manager over to my table to compliment the servers. This is probably my first choice of restaurants, and I always go on my birthday.
(5)Chris G.
Decent food, great biscuits, and decent service (sometimes it's a hit, sometime's it's a miss). It's not gourmet, but for the most part, you aren't paying gourmet prices. The meals usually arrive in a prompt manner, my refills are usually timely. If you're in a small town in rural Kansas, this is fine dining. In the KC area, it's mid-dining. It doesn't stack up againt Bristol, McCormicks, or many others. But it is cheaper, in many ways, and you don't need to be dressed beyond a Tshirt and jeans. Celiacs beware! Do your homework and question the server/manager about the meals. Even the BROCCOLI has gluten on it! Many items have added seasoning where you wouldn't expect it (everyone knows the biscuits are off limits), and their 'menu' they currently provide is a greasy sheet of paper that has a spreadsheet that is nearly impossible to interpret or read, as it has all 'allergies' listed on one sheet, and tiny dots indicating acceptability (and all in VERY small print). A national chain can do better. Their recent announcement (Darden's) regarding changing their staffing policies so they can avoid paying insurance bothers me, too.
(3)Courtney S.
I really only came here for the cheddar biscuits, but overall I thought the food was decent and the servers were fast and friendly. The host made us wait 20 minutes to be seated, even though there were open tables all around and it was a busy Sunday evening. Maybe they were short staffed, but I really hate seeing empty tables while being forced to wait. I ordered the popcorn shrimp and shrimp scampi combo and would get it again. This place is definitely not my first choice in seafood, but it's not bad either.
(3)