Habit Burger & Grill

I took a midday break from the scorching Huntington Beach weather for a little ice-cold respite at The Habit Burger Grill.
This local joint is known for their savory burgers, but today, I was in a mood for something a little sweeter. As the clock neared half past twelve, I stepped into a bustling, lively restaurant.
A handful of eager patrons were lined up, but thanks to the convenience of a self-service kiosk, I bypassed the queue.
It's moments like these when technology comes in clutch! Placing an order for a refreshing cookies and cream shake, I set my expectations for a quick wait time.
However, even as a seasoned restaurant-goer, I was thrown a bit of a curveball.
A large order that had arrived at the Pier held up the process, seemingly commanding the full attention of the staff.
Despite the unexpected delay, I remained hopeful; my sweet retreat was merely minutes away. As time passed, it was finally my turn in line.
My shake was prepared with efficiency, a testament to the skillful staff at The Habit.
Yet, the way it was handed over left a little to be desired.
My shake was simply placed on the counter, the accompanying straw laid down next to it.
An impersonal, call-out free experience was a bit of a letdown.
Nevertheless, I confidently picked up what I assumed was my order and caught a fleeting glance from one of the employees, a tacit confirmation of sorts. The shake, though, was nothing short of delectable.
Every sip was a symphony of creamy indulgence that helped ward off the heat.
However, I couldn't help but feel a touch of disappointment.
A 20-minute wait for a shake and the lack of a personal touch left a slightly bitter taste in this sweet experience. Would I visit The Habit Burger Grill again? Absolutely.
Their food is undeniably enjoyable.
However, the level of service at this particular location could use some attention.
While a large order can be demanding, it's important to remember that every customer deserves a little nod of acknowledgment.

Owner response

Leaving reviews is typically not my norm but this location has repeatedly messed up on so many occasions that it is beyond reason how they can get the most basic of their job so wrong! On the last 4 times I have visited, with many months in between each time, I have encountered really bad customer service, undercooked and overcooked food, and a bad hazard to everyone in the place! Plus the size of the food has gotten smaller since 2020! The staff behind the counter are not positive, very snippy, have attitude, are demeaning, inflammatory, do listen to the customer and then blame the customer when we have to repeat ourself, and are just rude and incompetent! 2022. In 2023, I placed an order for my family and I had to say it four times because the guy behind the counter kept talking and socializing with a person on the cook line, and he kept stopping while taking my order to address everyone who came up to the end of the counter to ask for something.
Never once did he apologize to me or say excuse me, I will be right with you.
Not Mr dud he tell that to anyone interrupting him while he was taking my order.
I stayed calm.
I asked a specific food and he got my order incorrect.
I asked nicely for him to correct it.
He got upset and blamed me.
Then the food sat on top of the counter while he disappeared.
He brought it to my table and dropped it on the surface instead of gently placing the tray down.
He rudely told me to enjoy my food....but it was cold food, undercooked patty that I requested to be cooked we.
I asked for the manager and became even more irate and tried to tell me to call Corporate.
I asked what the number was to the Mgr here and he refused to provide it, saying he doesn't give out personal numbers...as if I was even asking for that! Then I said get your Mgr now please.
Use the phone the same way you would call the Mgr in case of an emergency.
The mrg came from the back room and was nice.
He listened to what happened and apologized about the employee and said he will speak with him.
I told him this was not the first time with this same guy but that I had not spoken up about it before.
He recookedmy food for me. Then I came in another time in 2023 and the food was undercooked, most of my fries were left on a tray atop the counter after they spilled out while the server put them into a bag even though I said it was for eating in! The last time in 2024, the food was cold again but she microwaved it for me.
Then the floor was literally covered in real grease! Everyone for over an hour almost bit the dust and fell.
No one could walk without slipping.
I tweaked my hip and lower back while using the restroom and had to hold onto the stall walls to keep from falling. I told the lady at the counter and she said she knew, she had tried reaching her Mgr but he doesn't answer or reply and isn't there.
I told her the floor is unsafe and is a liability hazard and not fair to customers to not know! They had one wet floor sign in the back but that was it and it was not visible.
I said can't someone mop it with cleaning product and she said no and went back to stocking items.
Other customers were all saying it out loud too! See the greasey floor pictures I took! Never going back there again!

Owner response

The place was super busy and they had a ton of online orders here that were pending pickup.
There was a line of people waiting to get their food so obviously this place is highly popular and desired. The tempura green beans with ranch was very good! Would order every time! We also were pleased with the courtesy of the staff and how patient they were. Now for the food... The best Chicken Club we have ever had! We honestly would eat here all the time if we could! We were on vacation from Kansas are hope Habit comes to Kansas in the future! I would give a full five but we waited nearly 20 minutes for our food since there were so slammed.

Owner response