Regulars Ask for Drinks at Favorite Spot Before Closing, Waiter Responds with Unexpected Ultimatum

Regulars Request Drinks at Beloved Establishment Before Closing Time; Waiter Surprises Them with Unexpected Response

A group of regular patrons recently found themselves in an unusual situation when they visited one of their favourite restaurants shortly before closing time. The waiter’s unexpected ultimatum left them questioning whether their actions were justified or not.

The incident, shared on Reddit’s “Am I The A——?” forum, involved a man and his friends stopping by the establishment just an hour before it was due to close. The group had enjoyed a late-night dinner and decided to have cocktails at the high-end Mexican-Italian fusion restaurant known for its fantastic drinks.

According to the Reddit post, the patrons, who were considered regulars by the staff due to their frequent visits for special occasions, politely inquired about having a drink outside on the terrace. However, they were met with a surprising response from the waiter on duty.

Upon entering the restaurant, the waiter, described as the second-in-command, appeared taken aback by the group’s request. Despite there still being diners present and an hour remaining until closing, the waiter reluctantly agreed to allow them to stay for drinks.

The Redditor shared that the waiter’s response was rather brusque, stating, “Only because it’s you. This isn’t a drinks place, and as soon as the last table leaves, you’re out.” This unexpected ultimatum left the patrons feeling slightly uncomfortable and questioning if they had overstepped their bounds.

The group expressed their surprise at the waiter’s reaction, emphasising that they had no intention of lingering past closing time and believed they were well within their rights to enjoy a drink on the terrace. Despite being regular customers who often spent money at the establishment, they felt the response was unnecessarily hostile.

Seeking validation from the online community, the Reddit user asked, “Am I the a——?” Responses varied, with some siding with the patrons, pointing out that they had arrived with plenty of time before closing and should have been accommodated without hostility.

Conversely, former waiters and restaurant staff chimed in, sharing their frustrations at customers who arrived shortly before closing. However, others argued that as long as there was ample time before closing, the patrons were not in the wrong for requesting drinks.

Ultimately, the incident sparked a debate on social etiquette and customer service expectations. While the patrons may have felt slighted by the waiter’s response, it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between accommodating customers and respecting closing procedures in the service industry.

In conclusion, the unexpected ultimatum delivered by the waiter at the beloved restaurant sheds light on the nuances of customer service dynamics and the importance of clear communication between staff and patrons. As the hospitality industry navigates evolving customer expectations, finding a balance between accommodating guests and adhering to closing policies remains a key challenge for establishments.