04/09/2025
Dear Patrons,
We have carefully reviewed your feedback and fully understand your frustration regarding our reservation system. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused. Allow us the opportunity to explain why we maintain this reservation system.
1 – Despite what many may think, we are still a small restaurant. In the kitchen, it’s only Chef Jesse, with the help of two assistants who handle the bread and salad. Every single dish served to you is personally prepared by Chef Jesse, who chooses not to bring in a second chef in order to preserve the family spirit that defines our kitchen.
2 – The reason we haven’t set up an online reservation system is because Chef Jesse limits the number of guests per service to ensure quality and attention to every plate. We carefully organize our tables based on this philosophy. For example, if we receive a reservation for a group of 8 or 10, we evaluate the client profile and adjust the number of other tables accordingly. Our goal is to make sure no one has to wait an unreasonable amount of time to be served.
3 – Finally, please know that this is not a marketing strategy. We are committed to preserving the spirit of Clifford’s – the one that was instilled years ago by our beloved late Clifford, who simply wanted to serve good food to the community. That spirit lives on through Chef Jesse and me, Nicole. We care deeply not only for our local community but also for every guest who walks through our doors. We will never compromise on that.
Once again, we’re truly sorry for any frustration, and we completely understand if some may feel we are overrated or believe there’s a hidden strategy behind our approach. But for many of you, we know you understand everything we’ve shared above.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being part of our big family. We appreciate your support more than words can say, and we hope to welcome you again very soon.
Chef Jesse & Nicole
