Chili's Grill & Bar

We called ahead to Chili's in Evanston at 6 pm, and were told that we could be put on the call-ahead list for a table at 7. We arrived at 6:30, checked in, and got our pager. At 7, I asked the hostess if our table was ready. She informed me that the call-ahead list was not in fact a reservation, and that it guaranteed nothing. We would just have to wait for a table with everyone else. Why does Chili's have a call-ahead list, that is presented as a reservation system, when in fact the call-ahead is meaningless, and gives a false impression? We waited until 7:30, at which point, having spent an hour waiting for a table when the hostess was telling everyone else that the wait time was 30 minutes, we left and went to Noodles and Company. I doubt I'll ever go to a Chili's again. If they have that much of a lack of having their act together at the front end, what expectations could I reasonably have of service at the table, order accuracy, or food quality?

Pros: Decent margaritas

Cons: Lousy service

I generally like chili's. but, the burgers were more expensive than wolfgang pucks! also, the bartender didnt know what a scotch was; she clearly had just been hired for her looks. she did know about the food though, and was helpful when i told her i was a steak guy. also, they have sound on for sports in the bar, which was a plus for me, but some business woman left because it was too loud for her.

Pros: decent food and margaritas, good sports

Cons: no bar knowledge