Is it kosher to demand a different table in an empty restaurant during non-peak hours? Brice D., St. Louis
The answer starts with perception. You see an empty restaurant at 6:00 pm. The host(ess) may see the room full of reserved tables by 7 pm. The restaurant’s table chart shows servers assigned to different sections, as well as requests for a specific table and/or server. Some sections may not yet be open, all servers may not yet be on the floor. Suffice to say, planning the flow of a dining room is more complicated than it seems, and switching it all around can be problematic.
The best tables are reserved for parties who make reservations, justifiably so. Where you may see a row of tables overlooking the Arch, the street scene, a water element, whatever, the host(ess) may see a row of reserved tables. So go ahead and demand “that table over there,” but don’t be surprised if your request is denied.
One’s tone and attitude are the key. Demanding anything at the front desk is the least effective way of getting what you’re after. Be polite, be humble, and be sincere. Doing so may endear you to the front desk personnel and may just earn you a better table than playing Mr. Pushy McBigshot. That said, I have negotiated for the best table in the house by asking a single, pointed question... "If we can be in and out in say, an hour, can we have that table that's reserved for 7:30?" Tailor the respective times to the situation. Then the onus is on you (and the server) to make that happen. All sides benefit in this scenario: The restaurant and server get extra revenue and you get the table you want.
The best and safest advice, though, is to make a reservation. And feel free to ask for a specific room, section, table, or server. With today’s reservation software, not only is that easy to do but the information gets saved for the next time you call. On the flip side, if you’re a jerk, that info may be noted as well. Congratulations...you deserve that table next to the bus station.
