There are those in the food world who will always be labeled as picky eaters -- those who refuse to sit at any table except the cozy corner booth by the window and those who find a reason to complain about everything from over-seasoning to undercooking just to get a few dollars off their check. But sometimes, there are "picky eaters" that have good reason to complain...the problem is they don't always do so with grace.
Here's what not to do when dining out and a restaurant botches things up big time:
1. When a waiter spills hot food or a drink all over you, do not put on devil's horns. Some people underestimate the difficulties of being a waiter. Try carrying four different hot plates or a tray of dry martinis safely to a table a few feet away (or worse, up a flight of stairs) without a crash (or serious wobble). If you land safely, then you can complain all you want, otherwise, practice a little patience and understanding. Instead of complaining, recognize it was a mistake, and take advantage of the spill. Milk that stain on your new outfit for all it's worth. Usually free dessert, a second glass of wine or even a comped entrée will be offered. If your clothes are absolutely ruined, ask for a rain check or some free goodies to go, and head home to dry off. Who says take-out isn't an option?
2. What may be worse than a spill is not being able to get a table at all. When a hostess claims they never received your reservation, let alone ever spoke with you prior to now, do not leave! Instead, ask to speak with a manager about the situation. Secondly, do not go around blabbing to anyone who will listen about the restaurant's gross mistake. This is not the kindergarten playground and complaining about it to others will not shorten your wait time. Finally, don't give your waiter attitude because you're still upset over the reservation mishap. Waiters and hostesses have two distinct roles in the business, and it isn't your servers fault if the front of the house messed up. Try to make the most out of your meal by enjoying your service once you get the meal you deserve.
3. The worst mess the restaurant may make is soiling its reputation with uncleanly practices. As a food writer, finding a strand of hair that's not your own in the middle of your blueberry torte is never acceptable and just plain gross. For us, hair isn't an Orthodox ingredient. Still, don't blow your cover or make a scene. Be polite, and point out the disgusting incident to your waiter and/or restaurant manager. Most importantly, do not leave it out of your review, even if it's a 5-star restaurant. In good journalism, honesty always overrules sugar coating. The public deserves to know if a restaurant fails to practice good hygiene, and sometimes a dash of the bitter truth is what it takes to spur necessary change.