Puttanesca

“Do you make Linguini Puttanesca?” “No Madam,” I reply, “We don’t have it on the menu.” “Well,” the lady harrumphs, “The chef made it for me the last time I was here.” God – I hate when customers use...

Splat

Normally I find Al Fresco diners annoying. But one of my favorite couples snags an outside table and requests me as their waiter. Since the woman’s gorgeous I’m happy to oblige. “Good evening,” I say, cheerfully handing them menus. “Nice to see you again.” “Nice to...

Daddy’s Little Girl

It’s a hot muggy Friday night and the Bistro’s crowded. The central air system struggles to hold down the temperature. I guess we won’t be selling cappuccinos tonight. The hostess takes a smoke break. As I’m watching the entrance a foxy brunette walks through the...

Sounding Gay

It’s Saturday night and the Bistro’s packed. I’m managing to keep my tables under control but Saroya, whose section’s just been triple sat, isn’t so lucky. “Can you help me?” Saroya pleads, “I’m going into the weeds.” “Whatcha need?” I ask. “Can you tell table 23 the...

A Hundred’s Not Enough

At six o’clock a neatly dressed older man sits in my section. His table has four place settings. I figure his friends are running late. I let thirty seconds pass before I make my approach. “Good evening sir,” I say, greeting the man. “How are you this evening?” “I’m...