Originally Posted by
Baselinepunk
Too bad about the experience. The Host/Hostess station does play a filtering role and the waiter perhaps was more along the lines of "it's not me, folks" and looks like he handled it with the patron as much as they could.
Could have been an off night, short-staffed, etc. many things are going on in the background that patrons, rightfully so, don't or shouldn't know about. I've done time in many restaurants in my life and I would guess that the waitstaff was completely embarrassed and very appreciative of the patrons choice not to be an ass about it with them. Hopefully, the patron did not take it out on them regarding the tip.
Now, management ... that's another issue. They are the ones who are supposed to be on top of this. Personally, I would contact them in writing and explain the situation, giving them an opportunity to make it right. If you choose to do so, please include in your letter how this situation placed the waitstaff in a very uncomfortable position and they should be commended on how they handled it.
Positive word of mouth advertising is critical in this field. If they make it right, please make sure give'em mad props.