Tru - Chapel Hill

I had my last drink at Tru last night, and I found the experience rather impersonal due to the reliance on the app. While the staff was very friendly and tried their best to help us navigate the app, it strictly limited the drink options to what's available on it. For instance, I wanted to order a simple French 75—made with gin, Prosecco, and lemon juice. The bar had all the ingredients, but because it wasn’t listed on the app, I couldn’t order it. The bartender was apologetic, but there was nothing he could do since that was the only method of ordering. My husband also wanted an Old Fashioned, but, unfortunately, that was off the table as well. While the app worked well for food orders, it created a complicated process for getting cocktails that we didn't really want to deal with.

I was really disappointed with the ordering system at this restaurant. I find it quite elitist that they rely on customers having smartphones and credit cards. Many cities are starting to ban businesses that only accept cards because it creates an unnecessary barrier for those without bank accounts. While I understand this might be a cost-saving measure for them, it seems clear they don't mind that individuals with lower incomes are unable to access their bar.

I used to really enjoy going to TRU, but ever since they implemented the new ordering and payment system, it hasn't been worth it. I've tried several times because I truly love the place, but the system is so complicated that I've ended up leaving for other bars four out of the last five times I've attempted to visit. One time, I forgot my password for the ordering platform and couldn’t create a new profile because they only allow one profile per card. Another time, my phone ran out of battery. Just last night, I easily found a seat at the bar, but the system indicated a 45-minute wait. I could see the bartender right in front of me, yet I wasn't able to order a drink from him. It's incredibly frustrating and seems unnecessary.

Really like this place, but there are not really any vegetarian options. I wish their were plant proteins like tempeh, tofu, beyond meat, tofurkey etc. Even mozzarella would be nice so you could make a caprese sandwich. Love the cocktails though andstaff is great.

Will never be coming back to Tru Deli again. Have been waiting outside for 2 hours and was told I would be let on on the phone if I arrived when I did. After two hours we were still waiting outside. They were expecting us to wait outside until the last minute before the DUKE UNC game after waiting for 2 hours. Unacceptable. I don’t recommending supporting them.