DEAR MISS MANNERS: When we arrive at a restaurant and we have reservations, my husband expects me/us to walk straight up to the host station (in front of all of the folks already waiting) and literally interrupt the host, who is speaking with another guest, to declare that we have a reservation.
I find this embarrassing and incredibly rude. Others may be waiting for just the same thing: to tell the host that they have reservations. We actually got into an argument years ago after he insisted on doing this and I told him I was uncomfortable with it. We decided to leave after being seated because he got heated with me.
He continues to do this, while I find it abhorrent!
GENTLE READER: Interrupting a conversation in progress is, of course, rude.
When the restaurant leaves diners to fend for themselves, fellow guests are often the best source of information: “Excuse me. We have reservations. Are you waiting to check in? Do you know if we have to?” Miss Manners finds this to be effective both in determining the best course of action and, occasionally, in embarrassing the restaurant into improving its signage.
But then, if you fight so conspicuously that you have to leave, the restaurant may be relieved not to serve you.
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.