“There’s pineapple shrimp, lemon shrimp, coconut shrimp, pepper shrimp, shrimp soup, shrimp stew, shrimp salad, shrimp and potatoes, shrimp burger, shrimp sandwich. That- that’s about it.”
When it comes to customer service, I’m particularly picky when it comes to the dining experience. I expect a warm welcome, my drink order to be taken within 30 seconds of my butt hitting the booth and food that makes me want to blast a tweet to all 140 of my followers.
Over the Memorial Day weekend I visited Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., nested in the airbrush capital of the world, Gatlinburg. The trip marked my third visit to a Bubba Gump’s – Charleston and Maui were the other two – and it did not disappoint.
Each visit has been an amazing experience that’s centered around me, the customer. I won’t bore you with the details but the image above paints the real picture.
You see, if Forrest is running, you must be doing alright. But the second you flip the license plate to “Stop Forrest Stop”, a Bubba Gump employee – who doesn’t necessarily have to be your server – will beg for your attention within seconds.
Pair a customer-centered atmosphere with great food and you’ve got a winner.
The next time you’re looking for a day trip, head up Chapman Highway towards Sevierville, hook a right to Gatlinburg and visit Bubba and Forrest.
Photography by Daniel Bonatto
