OK, so I thought this was unusual . . .

I was at a very upscale restaurant-that-shall-remain-anonymous for Xmas Eve, and among the many disappointing aspects of the meal, our server was a total low-talker. Not that one ever wants a shouter, but in a crowded restaurant filled with patrons and staff -- not to mention pretty terrible music playing a bit too loud on the PA* -- y'know, diners might actually want to hear what they're in store for.






*I work in a record store part-time and previously to that worked in the music business for some time and have been to a billion concerts, so generally loudness is not an issue. That is, if it's too loud to where I would notice, it's probably too loud for normal people.

Why won't anyone name names on a restaurant forum?

[Robin Garr]

are we allowed to name a place we have had a bad experience on here, without offending anyone? i myself have no problem with that.

Sure. It's best to be fair and honest, avoid insults and potential libel; but the forum absolutely permits both good and bad reviews with names named. No worries there!

it always looks better to have "a guy in a suit" approach a problem at a table opposed to the server.

(coming from a former "gal in a skirt")

It could be a guy in a skirt.

Perhaps I'm being sensitive to the current economic environment. I wouldn't want to cause diners to avoid an indie.
Also, I got a bit singed the last time I named a restuarant for less than stellar service.

90% sure the server forgot to ring in your entree...

i agree with this.

i also think that a server giving their name is fine. nothing wrong with being a human. also prevents the 'garcon' treatment.
handling money in full view of the customer is terrifying to me when it comes to food service. not only is it tacky, its downright dangerous.

I remember going to Kingfish some years ago and the wait-staff counted the money and made change right at the table. That had one of those change dispensers on their belts. Not too classy. That is a totally bizarre dining experience to be sure.

They do this at Mark's Feed Store. It is efficient, especially for lunch. I like it.

Now, at a more upscale place, it wouldnt fit.

Why won't anyone name names on a restaurant forum?

I can't really name the restaurant because of work-related reasons, not because I'm unwilling to or adhering to some sort of forum rule. I wish I could name the restaurant, actually.

i don't like the canned "hi my name is blah, blah, blah", and i despise name tags
but i like it when the server sits or kneels, so they are at eye level more than anything else - i don't like to look at the servers midsection or always be looking up when they come to the table
i usually kneel at tables when serving in order to make eye contact with the guests

Kneeling just sounds so 18th century to me. I much prefer my servers upright.

90% sure the server forgot to ring in your entree...

I have to agree...Usually, in my experience if the server blames something on the kitchen, then about 90% of the time it's the servers fault.....

Kneeling just sounds so 18th century to me. I much prefer my servers upright.

I don't care if my server stands or squats, as long as they're natural about which ever position they're in. The thing I detested the most about serving was the looming over my tables. Now, you won't find a lot of kneeling at an upscale restaurant without tension, but I think that's because so many of our dining customs are antique.

However, I repeat, squatting should not be done unless executed with comfort.

Perhaps I'm being sensitive to the current economic environment. I wouldn't want to cause diners to avoid an indie.
Also, I got a bit singed the last time I named a restuarant for less than stellar service.

Has happened to me as well. Sometimes truth is best not written. Just last week I was not pointing out a Chinese place for less than stellar food. Leah, like you, I want to see NO local fail. But, where do we draw the line? If a place is great say it, but what if it really sux?

However, I repeat, squatting should not be done unless executed with comfort.

Jackie, would that be comfort for the server or the customer?

However, I repeat, squatting should not be done unless executed with comfort.

Jackie, would that be comfort for the server or the customer?

I think both. If the customer wants to stand, by all means. Certain lines you shouldn't cross at a table, though, like singing, arguing, clucking...