When I saw the marketing information about the new Richtree Market at the Eaton Centre, I was excited to visit.  I was even more interested when their Facebook page posted something about an event called Taste of Richtree, an event where people can become acquainted with their new concept (which is more like a higher end food court than the old food station/market idea).  However, upon arrival, I was sorely disappointed.  I checked in at the front as I would at any event and went in to mingle.  As a lifestyle blogger going to a food-related event, my first instinct was to check out the appetizers – it’s a food event, so there should be something for guests to nibble on – I was told that staff would be coming around with trays, but I did not see anyone.  It was not as easy as it seemed. I had to weave my way through a crowd – one where I had to look at an individual’s wrist to determine if he or she was a party attendee or just a regular customer.

The new sign

By the time I saw food, I was told by a manager, Paul, that the space I was trying to go into was booked for a(nother) private party (I had already (unknowingly) grabbed a sandwich by then).  Okay, fine, but there should be signage indicating that, or, the space should be roped off.  If Paul is management, he shouldn’t even be acting a “bouncer” at the space.  It isn’t his job.  He should be mingling with the Taste of Richtree guests (if he can figure out who is a guest rather than a paying customer), introducing himself and asking them if they’re having a good time.  In addition, Taste of Richtree, being an RSVP event, should have had a clearly-marked, closed off section, so that we wouldn’t be lost amongst the paying customers, and make the experience less chaotic. That, along with some appetizers and perhaps complimentary, non-alcoholic drinks are part of Event Planning 101.  If they had been followed, the event would have been amazing rather than the crazy, disorganized chaos that Taste of Richtree, unfortunately, turned out to be.  And my husband and I would not have left the event after only staying for approximately 30 minutes.

Richtree marketing image that was with the event RSVP

I do have to say that the new space and concept is very nice and modern.  I like the small, urban-sized market that is off to the side of the restaurant, which sells both prepared items as well as groceries.  The new space, unlike the old location, also has seating and is tech-friendly, offering guests free WiFi.  There is also an app for iOS and Android for rewards and mobile payment.

First image by author, second image from the Eventbrite RSVP