09/18/2026
Okeechobee, I owe you an apology.
I recently tried an AI phone ordering system at Gladys'. My heart behind it was to give our waitresses more time with the customers sitting in front of them, with fewer interruptions from phone calls.
But good intentions don't erase a frustrating experience. The system was only running for a couple of days, and we quickly learned it wasn't the experience our customers wanted. I'm sorry we made ordering a meal harder than it should have been.
One of the things we fell in love with about Okeechobee is that being here feels like stepping back in time, away from the hustle and bustle. You aren't rushing to end a conversation. You take time for people. You're present with the person in front of you. That's the heart we want to keep at Gladys'.
So, a couple of days ago, we took the AI phone ordering system down. When you call to place an order, one of our girls will answer, ready to serve you with the same personal care you receive in the restaurant.
A lesson that stayed with me from The Five Languages of Apology is that an apology should include making things right.
To the four customers who called and were frustrated by the system: please stop in and let us know. Your next meal is on us.
Thank you for speaking up, for your patience, and for letting us be part of this community. We're listening, and we're grateful for the chance to make it right.
With love and appreciation,
Garr & the Gladys' team
