Mille Fleurs

My wife made reservations online for a party 4 for Wednesday, 1/14/09 at 8:15pm. Wednesday afternoon, Mille Fleurs' hostess called to confirm reservations at 8:30 pm and my wife stated that unfortunately all parties are very ill to attend this evening. In fact, I ended up going to the ER for the stomach flu this afternoon. Hostess then told my wife that if the 8:15pm time slot isn't filled then the credit card will be charged $25 per person on our party of 4. Hostess recommended that at least keep the RSVP to party of 2 to avoid the additional charge in case the tables aren't filled but, if the time slot does get filled, we will get a call stating that the credit card will not be charged. My wife recommended other friends to attend Mille Fleurs for restaurant week since we are not able to. At 6:15pm, a friend called Mille Fleurs to RSVP party of 2 for Wednesday, 1/14/09 evening for between the times of 8pm -8:30pm. Nina, the hostess answered the phone and stated that there is no opening for that time and that the earliest time is 8:45pm. When my friend informed us that there is no openings until 8:45pm, my wife immediately called Mille Fleurs to ask if our RSVP for 8:15pm been filled thus no charge to the cc. Nina, was talking in circles. First she said,"No, it's not filled" and we will still be charged. My wife then said, "I know for a fact that you told someone that the only earliest RSVP available is 8:45pm., which is it? Is my table filled and you're charging me anyway?" My wife could not get a straight answer from Nina except for her saying, "I know about the situation so, please hold". My wife asked why she was being charged if they were able to fill that time slot? Again, Nina said, it didn't matter if someone called to RSVP that time slot, it's not available because it's still open for your party and you will be charged. Nina then asked if she can put my wife on hold again and although replied: NO. Nina placed her on hold anyway. After 3 min. on hold, My

I've been to Mille Fleur twice. The first time was for Valentine's Day which was nice although I thought the food was better at Mr. A's. The service that day was excellent. The second time was for my anniversary. The food was good but nothing to write home about. I'd rather go to Ruth's or Donovan's for a great steak or Mr A's for an excellent meal. The service on that day was OK. I think if you look young, you may not get the type of service as the older "more distinguished" looking crowd may receive. Also, the fillet I ordered had too much gristle. It has a great casual but elegant atmosphere and the food is good but I've had better cuisine for less $. Based on the other review I'll not be going back for thirds. I have not experienced being charged for a missed reservation like the other reviewer. Makes me wonder what kind of restaurant would charge for a missed reservation due to illness? Are they loosing so much business the must make it up in that manner?