Criniti’s relaunch cops heavy customer flak… where’s the toilet paper?
Paramatta institution Criniti’s has reopened, and it seems customers have been left unimpressed.
The relaunch was marked by fire twirlers (who set the fire alarms off), but despite the spectacle it was a drama filled week for the restaurant.
The Church St eatery which replaced El-Phoenician Lebanese restaurant relaunched with a VIP event for celebrities and influencers who posted photos of the restaurant’s metre-long pizzas and fire dancers.
However, behind the Instagram fun were complaints of a lack of toilet paper, bad customer service and one guest said, “The venue smelt like wet paint.”
The unisex toilets also didn’t have locks on the doors and the fire alarm went off not once, but twice.
Criniti’s has refuted the criticisms.
“The venue is brand new, hence of course will smell brand new. We are positive, based on all the feedback that all invited celebs and influencers thoroughly enjoyed themselves on the evening, as their socials speak louder than any stories,” Kathy Criniti, the sister of founder Frank Criniti said.
“As per the bathrooms, every door had locks on them. I don’t even understand where this comment came from.
“Criniti’s put on a show that night, which was adorned by our fabulous canape and cocktails menu, flowing champagne, iconic bikes and a huge Criniti’s crest ice sculpture. The night was full of theatrics: MC, live entertainment and a DJ.
“I have yet to hear a comment of disappointment.”
Despite this, the first customer reviews have also been mixed for the Brunelli Group and Premix King owned restaurant chain.
One diner wrote, “It started rather well”. However, things got worse. “The customer service from everyone was rather appalling. We got very smart attitude and no care whatsoever,” they said.
“We stepped out of this restaurant and moved to another one. I won’t recommend it to anyone!!!” another diner said.
Crinitti’s owners are planning new restaurants in Brighton Le-Sands and Manly.
Irit Jackson, 18th August 2022
