As the clock struck five on a bustling Saturday evening, we found ourselves stepping into the familiar embrace of Red Lobster, hopeful for a delightful dining experience. However, our journey began on rocky shores as the hostess, perhaps overwhelmed by the evening rush, led us to a table already claimed by unseen diners. Undeterred by this initial hiccup, we settled in, eagerly awaiting the attention of our waiter. Alas, it seemed patience was the catch of the day as fifteen long minutes drifted by before our drink orders were finally taken. Thankfully, the coconut shrimp appetizer provided a glimmer of hope amidst the rocky start. Its crispy exterior and succulent interior offered a momentary respite from our growing hunger. Yet, our hopes were soon dashed upon the presentation of the Surf & Turf, a dish that fell far short of its enticing description on the menu. The lobster, though flavorful, hung unappetizingly from its shell, a disappointing sight indeed. The steak, meanwhile, lacked the promised sizzle, its flavor falling flat amidst the sea of disappointment. To add insult to injury, the ketchup dish rudely intruded upon our plates, while the random sprinkling of parsley seemed like an afterthought rather than a thoughtful garnish. In the end, our evening at Red Lobster proved to be a tale of unmet expectations and culinary missteps. While the coconut shrimp offered a brief moment of satisfaction, the overall experience left much to be desired. We departed, vowing to seek out calmer waters for our next dining adventure.