Our First Impression

When we first stepped into Modern Shang at Ayala Mall, we were greeted by a breath of fresh elegance. Being the early birds that we were, we had the undivided attention of the staff, which set a high bar for what was to come. The ambiance was vibrant yet comforting, a perfect backdrop for what turned out to be a delightful culinary journey.

The dishes were nothing short of spectacular. Each bite was a testament to how well the flavors blended together, with every ingredient shining through. The marination was perfect, highlighting the chef’s skill in crafting delicious dishes. It wasn’t just the food that impressed us; the impeccable service made our dining experience feel exclusive and special. So much so, that we were convinced to invest in their BFF Card—a premium membership promising attractive discounts. Little did we know, our initial enchantment was about to face a reality check.

A Different Story the Second Time Around

Flush with the memory of our first visit, we returned to Modern Shang with high expectations. However, the contrast in our experience was stark. This time, our designated server, though clearly skilled, was stretched thin across multiple tables. Her capacity to cater to us was compromised, which dimmed the luster of our anticipated meal.

The real test of patience came with a simple order: my rice. As my family’s plates arrived and they began eating, my rice was nowhere to be seen. I waved down my server, who gestured that I would need to wait. After reaching out to about five different staff members, each interaction ended with a nod and no follow-through. By the time my rice finally arrived, my husband and kid had nearly finished their meals, leaving my plate to catch up.

Reflections and Hope

Our second visit to Modern Shang was a lesson in inconsistency. It’s clear that when they get it right, it’s a flawless harmony of food and service. But when they miss the mark, it leaves patrons like us feeling forgotten and frustrated. We hope our feedback encourages Modern Shang to find a balance between the rush of peak hours and maintaining the high standard they’ve set themselves. Will we use our BFF Card again? Yes, but with a cautious optimism that we’ll rediscover the magic of our first visit, not the mishaps of the second.