Pre-Op

WARNING! If you’re squeamish, skip this post! It’s a slow shift and I’m kibitzing in the back with the other servers. It looks like it’s gonna be a dead night. “So did you see that story about Craigslist on the news last night?”...

Names

Maximilian, our head busboy, is having a baby. Well, sort of. Max’s daughter Isabel, who also works at the Bistro, is six months pregnant. Max is only a few years older than me and this will be his first grandchild. When Max discovered the stork was paying his...

V Day

The couple on Table 22 orders the dessert special, a confection of white chocolate mousse and strawberries. Of course, it’s in the shape of a heart. “Happy Valentine’s Day Madam,” I say, gallantly presenting the dessert. “Oh!” the woman exclaims. “Thank you!” “My...

Valentine’s Eve

The phone rings. I already know what the person on the other end wants. I already know what my answer is going to be. It seems pointless to even answer. But I must. It’s my job. “Hello the Bistro,” I say cheerily, “How may I help you?”...

The Dogs of War

It’s my day off. I’m writing on my laptop when my dog bounds into my lap and starts licking my face. “What do you want now?” I ask. Buster looks at me, panting expectantly. “Dog park?” I ask. “You want to go play?” Buster emits a low growl. That’s “yes” in his...

What a Freak

It’s a busy night. The hostess is in the bathroom so I’m covering the door. The door chimes. A man walks in. “Four,” he says, holding up exactly four fingers. How nice. “Do you have a reservation?” I ask politely. “No,” he grunts, “Do I need one?” “I’m afraid we’re...