I had a poor dining experience in September. I'm a solo diner and was a park guest not a convention resort guest and I strongly suspect that was the issue. I often book my ADR right at opening so it's easier for waitstaff to seat me at a 2 top with less wait as more tables available. I wasn't seated at the window but all the tables window side were 4 top so that was expected and not a problem for me. I still had a decent view from the middle of the restaurant as 99% of window side was empty and remained empty throughout my stay. The issue was service. My waiter couldn't be bothered to speak with me. Menu tossed on my table without a word. He was insulted his first table was a solo diner. I also didn't fit the expectation of a convention guest with a big expense account to spend. I had dressed up a bit from my park clothes and was wearing capris, blouse and sandals. While not a signature dining experience, I recognized that Toledo was a bit fancier and made the effort to dress appropriately. I had read all the great reviews including the Michelin recommendation and was looking forward to a good experience. I've traveled through Spain and enjoy traditional Spanish food. I loved my dining experience at Jaleo. I didn't expect Jaleo level service or food but I wasn't paying Jaleo level prices.
I had the scallops which were prepared well. But no side at all not even a garnish or a leaf. I had a Spanish beer instead of wine and this also aggrieved my waiter who rolled his eyes and said nothing. I was processed in and out within 30 minutes. I've dined solo at WDW restaurants for 12 years plus. While I clearly pulled a senior, experienced waiter who was personally offended to waste his time on a solo diner, none of the waitstaff looked to be on point. Mid way through my meal, a friend or former employee arrived and all the diners were treated to a big cluster hug of tears, shouts and general mayhem stretching from the check-in desk into the middle of the restaurant as all waiters rushed to great their friend. If there was a manager on the floor, he or she was MIA. It was clear that any complaints to the manager or request to be seated elsewhere would accomplish nothing that night. Walking out and settling my bill without eating would have been the only realistic choice but I wanted those scallops. I've had some less than friendly or good service at WDW, but this was the worst. I no longer rush to recommend solo dining at WDW anymore. My waiter expected a low tip from the get go because I was a solo diner. He got a low tip because he was offensive and rude. Most solo diners tip well and often generously for decent middling service. I won't be back and won't recommend unless you fit their expectations of an acceptable diner. In other words, at least a party of 4 with an expense account. I appreciate this is just my personal experience. I truly hope no one ever shares this experience.
