Category: First course

This past week has been rough on our family. My father-in-law died on Saturday morning. Both kids made it home, safe and sound. And we will gather several times in the weeks to come to honor their grandfather’s memory. I have to say, work is almost a welcome respite as we muddle through. And there’s…

A day of celebrations and milestones. Several groups of girlfriends celebrating the final days at work for pregnant coworkers. Multiple families pushing strollers, celebrating their first visits to my city. So many college graduates, still wearing their black gowns, celebrating with so many proud parents. Four happy-birthday lunches. At least one office gathering to mark…

One might imagine that a quiet Monday is a walk in the park for this maitre ‘d. And that Friday–usually the busiest, craziest day of the week for lunch–is the day to dread. Friday, it turns out, is what keeps me coming back on Monday. Friday means no down time until cutting time and all…

…A writer. An editor. Someone whose work was pretty well received over the years. I am not simply the invisible hostess who seated you in a booth, then moved you to a bigger one in a closed section, just to be nice and make your lunch a happier and more comfortable one, when your party…

My favorite manager opened, and when he had time, he helped me seat the downstairs sections. My other favorite counterpart staffed the upstairs podium, and everyone–from walk-ins to large-group reservations–was easily and properly seated. The copier didn’t break down. The host who usually calls out, showed up–early. No one asked to change tables. I only…

I love karma–the idea of it, the hopefulness of it, the reality of it. Today’s karma: Several very nice incomplete parties came in–deuces. I was able to connect them when the other parties arrived, almost within seconds. Without hesitation, I actually knew before they spoke to me what their names were and who they were…

Long post alert! When I first interviewed with my restaurant, I told them I wanted to be an event planner. I like to throw a party. I’d even written about weddings at one point in my work life. What could be better than planning an elaborate event that someone else is paying for? The managers…

Nothing gives one better perspective than getting away–even just for a day or two. At the last minute, Mr. Restaurant Gal and I found a hotel room over Easter weekend in the tiny Ohio town where our son goes to college. We left Saturday, drove 9 hours there, ate and drank with the boy, then…

I was recognized by management as the first “employee of the month” of our recently opened eatery. I was suprised and touched to be so acknowledged. But I was also a tad uncomfortable. I am new to this business, and although I do my best, I am constantly amazed by how veteran servers, managers, and…

Our restaurant attracts all kinds of sports and entertainment figures–not every day, but on a regular basis. But, we have our own daughter of a celebrity personality, who works in the office. I love her. She is unassuming, doesn’t take anything from anyone, and works hard. She is also in college, finishing up. Now, page…