Restaurant Etiquette

[Vermilion Villager]

Last Saturday we had a 6:30 reservation for 2 at Bonefish. We arrived about 6:15 and they told us they were running 15 to 20 minutes late. Not a problem. The time kept dragging on and on and now it was 7:30 which prompted me to go up and ask what was the reason for the lengthy delay. The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."

When we finally got seated over an hour later at 7:30 I recognized a group of five people, and another group of four who were being seated as I initially walked in at 6:15. Yes...each one of these groups were done eating and you could see the black credit card holder on the table. We ate our meal and we're done 8:15. Those two groups were still there visiting when we walked out the door.
I know this is not McDonald's where you get fast food and race out the door. But I think people have to understand its a little bit more than them.

When its in-season, and there are groups of people waiting for an over an hour to eat, personally think it's a little rude for people to hog the restaurant. Not only are you inconveniencing people who have not had a chance to eat yet, you're a really screwing over the waite staff. The poor girl who was waiting on those two tables for over two hours essentially got tips from just two groups instead of the normal four that she would've.
The moral of the story…Please be a little considerate.

[Chi-Town]

Some restaurants have implemented a time frame. Not a bad idea.

[retiredguy123]

I would put most of the blame on the restaurant. They should have a time limit and enforce it, especially if they are accepting reservations.

[Ecuadog]

Yeah... that gripes my butt too.

[Two Bills]

Manager should should explain situation to people who have finished, say about 10-15 mins? after check presented, and ask them to vacate table for waiting customers.
Any reasonable, and I stress reasonable person would move.
Never been to restaurant, but do they have a bar area people could adjourn too?

[retiredguy123]

Last Saturday we had a 6:30 reservation for 2 at Bonefish. We arrived about 6:15 and they told us they were running 15 to 20 minutes late. Not a problem. The time kept dragging on and on and now it was 7:30 which prompted me to go up and ask what was the reason for the lengthy delay. The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."

When we finally got seated over an hour later at 7:30 I recognized a group of five people, and another group of four who were being seated as I initially walked in at 6:15. Yes...each one of these groups were done eating and you could see the black credit card holder on the table. We ate our meal and we're done 8:15. Those two groups were still there visiting when we walked out the door.
I know this is not McDonald's where you get fast food and race out the door. But I think people have to understand its a little bit more than them.

When its in-season, and there are groups of people waiting for an over an hour to eat, personally think it's a little rude for people to hog the restaurant. Not only are you inconveniencing people who have not had a chance to eat yet, you're a really screwing over the waite staff. The poor girl who was waiting on those two tables for over two hours essentially got tips from just two groups instead of the normal four that she would've.
The moral of the story…Please be a little considerate.
If I owned the restaurant, the manager would be fired. Incompetent.

[vintageogauge]

Yep ask them to leave and then watch Yelp light up the next day with negative reviews. If we're dining with old friends and want to chat awhile we always ask if it's OK or if there's an area we can go to for conversation and possibly drinks.

[retiredguy123]

Yep ask them to leave and then watch Yelp light up the next day with negative reviews. If we're dining with old friends and want to chat awhile we always ask if it's OK or if there's an area we can go to for conversation and possibly drinks.
To me, this thread is a negative review. The OP had a 6:30 reservation, and had to wait an hour to be seated.

[kkingston57]

If I owned the restaurant, the manager would be fired. Incompetent.

This is a damned if you do, damned if you don't situation. Personally, have never had this happen before and bet this is does not occur frequently. Guess best response is for restaurants to have a time limit for the table and politely remind customers of the time.

[MrFlorida]

This is a no win situation for the manager. If they ask people to leave, you would consider them rude, it they do nothing you would say they are incompetent. Either way would trigger a negative post .

[bsloan1960]

When I'm done eating and notice people are waiting to be seated I pay my bill and leave. i would only linger if I see open tables. This is common courtesy. Unfortunately we can't force people to be mindful of others. People can be exasperating.
"I Love Humanity- It's The People I Hate"

[GpaVader]

Had a similar situation like this back home. The difference was how the restaurant was handling reservations vs walk ins. It just happened to be Prom night, so they had a huge walk in crowd. We had a reservation, showed up 15 minutes before our reservation and was told that they were now handling things first come first serve... I asked him why he had a reservation system if he wasn't going to honor it. Have not been back to a Boca de Beppo since.....

[bsloan1960]

Had a similar situation like this back home. The difference was how the restaurant was handling reservations vs walk ins. It just happened to be Prom night, so they had a huge walk in crowd. We had a reservation, showed up 15 minutes before our reservation and was told that they were now handling things first come first serve... I asked him why he had a reservation system if he wasn't going to honor it. Have not been back to a Boca de Beppo since.....
https://y.yarn.co/b78ae812-1625-43b7-b64a-b997b007ad95_text.gif

[coffeebean]

When I'm done eating and notice people are waiting to be seated I pay my bill and leave. i would only linger if I see open tables. This is common courtesy. Unfortunately we can't force people to be mindful of others. People can be exasperating.
"I Love Humanity- It's The People I Hate"

Same here. That is exactly what hubby and I do. It is called consideration for others who are waiting to be seated.

[Vermilion Villager]

To me, this thread is a negative review. The OP had a 6:30 reservation, and had to wait an hour to be seated.

But it was WHY I had to wait is the reason that I posted this........

[retiredguy123]

But it was WHY I had to wait is the reason that I posted this........
I understand. But, in my opinion, the reason you had to wait was because the restaurant was not managed properly. It is not about customer etiquette.

[JMintzer]

Manager should should explain situation to people who have finished, say about 10-15 mins? after check presented, and ask them to vacate table for waiting customers.
Any reasonable, and I stress reasonable person would move.
Never been to restaurant, but do they have a bar area people could adjourn too?

That is a tightrope for the managed to traverse...

How do you ask customers to leave without ****ing them off?

[Stu from NYC]

That is a tightrope for the managed to traverse...

How do you ask customers to leave without ****ing them off?

Caught between rock and hard place

[bsloan1960]

It is management's responsibility to recognize and correct any hindrances to a diner's total satisfaction. They might consider carefully worded sign.
Such as:

"During Busy Times We Ask That You Make Your Table Available To Those Waiting Within 15 Minutes Of Finishing Your Meal"

Perhaps have it printed on the bill as well.

Maybe not that wording- I'm sure someone clever can come up with less confrontational wording.

[Bogie Shooter]

I understand. But, in my opinion, the reason you had to wait was because the restaurant was not managed properly. It is not about customer etiquette.

I disagree. People should be more considerate and get out.

[Rainger99]

They might consider carefully worded sign.
Such as:

"During Busy Times We Ask That You Make Your Table Available To Those Waiting Within 15 Minutes Of Finishing Your Meal"

Perhaps have it printed on the bill as well.

Maybe not that wording- I'm sure someone clever can come up with less confrontational wording.

You consider that language confrontational??

I consider it rather polite.

[Michael 61]

Here’s what I do - I am always cognizant of people waiting, and will vacate the table very soon after paying bill if people are waiting. If no one is waiting , I may linger a bit longer, but never at the expense of keeping employees from ending their shift near closing time. If they continue to fill my water glass, I will make sure to increase the size of my tip.

[tophcfa]

Dam, why would anybody want to hang around when done eating? My biggest issue is the server never seems to bring the bill quick enough and I have to waste valuable time waiting to pay for the meal.

[Two Bills]

That is a tightrope for the managed to traverse...

How do you ask customers to leave without ****ing them off?

Nicely!

[retiredguy123]

I disagree. People should be more considerate and get out.
So, if the OP 's accounting is accurate, they had to wait an hour past the Saturday night prime dining time because a third of the tables were available, but people sitting at those tables didn't practice proper "etiquette", and hogged the tables. Some of the tables were occupied for more than 2 hours while other customers, who had a reservation, had to wait? And this is not a management failure by the restaurant?

[fdpaq0580]

Once the last item is on the table, the server should place a timer on the table and hit the start button. The theme from Jeopardy will play while eating. Last one to put their utensils down pays the bill at the cashier desk. No paying at the table. Too much wasted time.
Anyone still at the table when the timer goes off will be shot with tranquilizer darts and dragged to the alley to sleep it off.
Fancy, high dollar, high rent establishments would really profit from this new efficiency plan. Every reservation seated on time.

[shut the front door]

To me, this thread is a negative review. The OP had a 6:30 reservation, and had to wait an hour to be seated.

In your haste to be negative, you missed the whole point of the post.
Your loss.

[Bogie Shooter]

So, if the OP 's accounting is accurate, they had to wait an hour past the Saturday night prime dining time because a third of the tables were available, but people sitting at those tables didn't practice proper "etiquette", and hogged the tables. Some of the tables were occupied for more than 2 hours while other customers, who had a reservation, had to wait? And this is not a management failure by the restaurant?

Customer’s share that responsibility.

[shut the front door]

I understand. But, in my opinion, the reason you had to wait was because the restaurant was not managed properly. It is not about customer etiquette.

It is exactly about current etiquette. If a restaurant doesn't have a posted policy of time limits at a table, it is the customer who should be polite and notice that there are people standing and waiting while they linger at a table for no reason.
But I've got a feeling that this won't sink in. Just gonna guess you are one who lingers for no reason while people are waiting to be seated.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

This is a damned if you do, damned if you don't situation. Personally, have never had this happen before and bet this is does not occur frequently. Guess best response is for restaurants to have a time limit for the table and politely remind customers of the time.

Not sure I agree with that as long as the manager is polite, posted policy and informs the table that they have a reservation for that table waiting, just like they did when they have a reservation. . .

remember, old people get entitled because they can, and if they give a poor review, then they were going to give a negative review for being called on their entitlement anyway.

[retiredguy123]

It is exactly about current etiquette. If a restaurant doesn't have a posted policy of time limits at a table, it is the customer who should be polite and notice that there are people standing and waiting while they linger at a table for no reason.
But I've got a feeling that this won't sink in. Just gonna guess you are one who lingers for no reason while people are waiting to be seated.
You are wrong. I definitely don't linger. But, some people may not know that others are waiting unless the restaurant tells them. The restaurant needs to control the traffic flow, especially when they have reservations. It's common sense and good business practice.

[fdpaq0580]

It is exactly about current etiquette. If a restaurant doesn't have a posted policy of time limits at a table, it is the customer who should be polite and notice that there are people standing and waiting while they linger at a table for no reason.
But I've got a feeling that this won't sink in. Just gonna guess you are one who lingers for no reason while people are waiting to be seated.

I've heard of studies that showed people who are ready to pull out of a parking space will actually slow down their preparations to leave and go through lots of unnecessary stuff when they notice that someone is waiting for "their" spot. Same selfish mentality at a restaurant when you 'own" the table.

[Michael G.]

We had reservations at Bonefish for 6 people to celebrate a birthday.
We all arrived on time and was told they were running 2 hours behind schedule.
It was the weekend and a busy diner hour, so we ended up eating at Steak and Shake when they still had waitresses.

Haven't been back to Bonefish since.

[DAVES]

Last Saturday we had a 6:30 reservation for 2 at Bonefish. We arrived about 6:15 and they told us they were running 15 to 20 minutes late. Not a problem. The time kept dragging on and on and now it was 7:30 which prompted me to go up and ask what was the reason for the lengthy delay. The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."

When we finally got seated over an hour later at 7:30 I recognized a group of five people, and another group of four who were being seated as I initially walked in at 6:15. Yes...each one of these groups were done eating and you could see the black credit card holder on the table. We ate our meal and we're done 8:15. Those two groups were still there visiting when we walked out the door.
I know this is not McDonald's where you get fast food and race out the door. But I think people have to understand its a little bit more than them.

When its in-season, and there are groups of people waiting for an over an hour to eat, personally think it's a little rude for people to hog the restaurant. Not only are you inconveniencing people who have not had a chance to eat yet, you're a really screwing over the waite staff. The poor girl who was waiting on those two tables for over two hours essentially got tips from just two groups instead of the normal four that she would've.
The moral of the story…Please be a little considerate.

Inconsiderate people are everywhere. They do not disappear at a certain age, when they retire or ....................

[Ecuadog]

It is management's responsibility to recognize and correct any hindrances to a diner's total satisfaction. They might consider carefully worded sign.
Such as: ...

"We do not mind if you want chew the fat, but please do it someplace else."

[justjim]

It is management's responsibility to recognize and correct any hindrances to a diner's total satisfaction. They might consider carefully worded sign.
Such as:

"During Busy Times We Ask That You Make Your Table Available To Those Waiting Within 15 Minutes Of Finishing Your Meal"

Perhaps have it printed on the bill as well.

Maybe not that wording- I'm sure someone clever can come up with less confrontational wording.

I like your suggestion:
During very busy times, thank you for being considerate of our staff and other patrons. We greatly appreciate your patronage. Jim Nicely, Mgr.

[Boomer]

I don't buy that the table-hogs don't know there are others waiting on a busy night. They just don't care.

Not only are they being rude to their fellow Villagers, they are callously costing their server money because the table cannot turn. Besides, I would be very surprised if these types are decent about tipping. My guess is their tips heap insult upon injury.

I think everybody should have to be a server sometime.

(When going out with a group, we have often invited our friends back to our house for dessert, drinks, and continued conversation. That plan is a good way to entertain without having to cook dinner for everybody and you can vacate a restaurant table within a polite time.)

Boomer

[fdpaq0580]

I like your suggestion:
During very busy times, thank you for being considerate of our staff and other patrons. We greatly appreciate your patronage. Jim Nicely, Mgr.

Too wimpy!

"Hey! You! If you are done stuffin' your gut, pay your check and move it. Other people are hungry and tired of waitin'"

[midiwiz]

Some restaurants have implemented a time frame. Not a bad idea.


Must be the new way of thinking. The time frame approach is one of the largest "no no's" in the business. You're basically saying, come in, sit eat and get the **** out. Great way to kill a restaurant.

I say this having grown up in the business, I have yet to run into one that has a time limit. Should that happen I will not be sitting down I will leave and not come back.

[ithos]

The person who is most negatively impacted is the server. By hogging a table in a crowded restaurant you are directly responsible for reducing their income.

Also, I don't understand how anyone can linger at a table well past the time they have finished their meal and be oblivious to or how have no regard for the loss of business to the restaurant and the imposition to fellow patrons.

What if everyone was so selfish? Then we would be paying much more for dining out at our favorite restaurants.

[Retiredsteve]

I would put most of the blame on the restaurant. They should have a time limit and enforce it, especially if they are accepting reservations. Then you would see a post about that where people complain about their right to sit so long.

[banjobob]

It is in the restaurants best interest for servers to attend to checks , presenting them and completing them in a timely manner. Lingering diners tables should be cleared and subtle hints to move on, just one of those unfortunate occurrences that happen . The “entitled” could care less as long as they are happy.

[Ele201]

It is management's responsibility to recognize and correct any hindrances to a diner's total satisfaction. They might consider carefully worded sign.
Such as:

"During Busy Times We Ask That You Make Your Table Available To Those Waiting Within 15 Minutes Of Finishing Your Meal"

Perhaps have it printed on the bill as well.

Maybe not that wording- I'm sure someone clever can come up with less confrontational wording.
I see your point but posting signage like that can be off-putting to guests at a restaurant. And putting it on the bill itself seems like a good idea at first — but that could also negatively affect the tip.

[ThirdOfFive]

The OP doesn't say this, but one has to wonder whether the offenders are Villagers. I mention this because of other behaviors by Villager age-group folks in other environments that could also be viewed as inconsiderate. One of the most common is to see two or even three shoppers, all pushing shopping carts, stopping to visit at the end of an aisle, thus effectively blocking that aisle as well as the one intersecting it. It is a pet peeve of my wife's also; the church we attend in TV often has people visiting and blocking rows of seats just before the service is scheduled to start.

I don't see this as intentionally selfish or "entitled", but it does seem more common among we older folks.

[daca55]

The person who is most negatively impacted is the server. By hogging a table in a crowded restaurant you are directly responsible for reducing their income.

Also, I don't understand how anyone can linger at a table well past the time they have finished their meal and be oblivious to or how have no regard for the loss of business to the restaurant and the imposition to fellow patrons.

What if everyone was so selfish? Then we would be paying much more for dining out at our favorite restaurants.

I agree but in many restaurants the server will go back to the table and ask is there anything else I can get you. If the server does that a couple of times after the bill has been paid people generally get the hint and leave. If they don’t then the server needs to tell them they need the table and unless you order something you need to leave. The server is the best one to do this because they have established a connection with the party by waiting on them.

[Ele201]

In this situation, my husband and I would have gone over to the bar for dinner. I know that Bonefish and the bar area is lovely. But I also know that not everyone likes sitting at the bar, eating dinner. That’s preferable to waiting an hour though IMO.

[Ele201]

I agree but in many restaurants the server will go back to the table and ask is there anything else I can get you. If the server does that a couple of times after the bill has been paid people generally get the hint and leave. If they don’t then the server needs to tell them they need the table and unless you order something you need to leave. The server is the best one to do this because they have established a connection with the party by waiting on them.
I’ve seen people lingering at busy restaurant bars as well. Maybe a guest had just one drink, and doesn’t want another. So he or she will just sit there nursing a drink for a long time. The bartender asks more than once to freshen the drink, but they decline, even though others are waiting for a seat, hovering around.

[Sabella]

Have they cleaned that place up.

[NotGolfer]

Some years ago we took some guests we'd not seen in years out to eat at one of the CC. After our meal (it wasn't long neither) we were asked by management if we'd vacate the table because of waiting customers. It was high season if I remember correctly. We had barely finished actually so it seemed a bit hasty but I can relate to what the OP said, experiencing similar. So folks need to be aware of their surroundings----something so many seem to lack here in many scenarios, not just restaurants.

[Mrs S]

There should be a little electronic sign on each table that reads “please be considerate of those waiting for a table and vacate the restaurant within 15 mins of finishing your meal.” If the timer hits the 15 min mark, the sign flashes.

[westernrider75]

Last Saturday we had a 6:30 reservation for 2 at Bonefish. We arrived about 6:15 and they told us they were running 15 to 20 minutes late. Not a problem. The time kept dragging on and on and now it was 7:30 which prompted me to go up and ask what was the reason for the lengthy delay. The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."

When we finally got seated over an hour later at 7:30 I recognized a group of five people, and another group of four who were being seated as I initially walked in at 6:15. Yes...each one of these groups were done eating and you could see the black credit card holder on the table. We ate our meal and we're done 8:15. Those two groups were still there visiting when we walked out the door.
I know this is not McDonald's where you get fast food and race out the door. But I think people have to understand its a little bit more than them.

When its in-season, and there are groups of people waiting for an over an hour to eat, personally think it's a little rude for people to hog the restaurant. Not only are you inconveniencing people who have not had a chance to eat yet, you're a really screwing over the waite staff. The poor girl who was waiting on those two tables for over two hours essentially got tips from just two groups instead of the normal four that she would've.
The moral of the story…Please be a little considerate.

Absolutely correct. As a former server, table turnover is essential to the restaurant running properly as well as your wait staff making the money that they count on. There are plenty of places to go and just sit with coffee or drinks and visit.

[FT9508]

To me Bonefish is an OK place. Only First Rate restaurants can get away with treating their customers so badly. We shall skip Bonefish forevermore or until we start to hear great things about it at some point in the future.

[NoMo50]

One of the most popular spots back in the day was a local BBQ joint with fantastic food, but very limited seating. The name of the place put the owner's attitude front and center: Li'l Jake's Eat It & Beat It.

[The Chipster]

Yeah... that gripes my butt too.

Your reply matches your profile photo.

[rickaslin]

I would put most of the blame on the restaurant. They should have a time limit and enforce it, especially if they are accepting reservations.

Of course you blame the restaurant it is always the restaurants fault, I can just hear all the complaining on this site if the restaurant said "excuse me your time is up and you have to leave" And don't say that if the patrons were warned ahead of time they would leave on time!!

[spinner1001]

This is an MBA case study. Management can improve turnover times to increase profits. If guests linger too long, waiters can wipe down tables with diluted spirits of ammonia.
/s

[defrey12]

Same here. That is exactly what hubby and I do. It is called consideration for others who are waiting to be seated.

On a Saturday night, you ASSUME people are waiting…

[Jazzman]

To me Bonefish is an OK place. Only First Rate restaurants can get away with treating their customers so badly. We shall skip Bonefish forevermore or until we start to hear great things about it at some point in the future.

That particular Bonefish is the highest gross revenue location within the entire chain. Nowhere in the posts did anyone say they were treated badly. The OP gave their opinion as to what he/she observed and concluded that was a reason why they had to wait.

[airstreamingypsy]

Restaurants only succeed if they can serve lots of people, wait staff only stays if they serve lots of people. If you sit and hog a table all night, you are hurting the restaurant and the server. If you want to visit, go back to one of your houses and visit. If you aren't eating at a restaurant you are basically loitering.

[kendi]

Last Saturday we had a 6:30 reservation for 2 at Bonefish. We arrived about 6:15 and they told us they were running 15 to 20 minutes late. Not a problem. The time kept dragging on and on and now it was 7:30 which prompted me to go up and ask what was the reason for the lengthy delay. The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."

When we finally got seated over an hour later at 7:30 I recognized a group of five people, and another group of four who were being seated as I initially walked in at 6:15. Yes...each one of these groups were done eating and you could see the black credit card holder on the table. We ate our meal and we're done 8:15. Those two groups were still there visiting when we walked out the door.
I know this is not McDonald's where you get fast food and race out the door. But I think people have to understand its a little bit more than them.

When its in-season, and there are groups of people waiting for an over an hour to eat, personally think it's a little rude for people to hog the restaurant. Not only are you inconveniencing people who have not had a chance to eat yet, you're a really screwing over the waite staff. The poor girl who was waiting on those two tables for over two hours essentially got tips from just two groups instead of the normal four that she would've.
The moral of the story…Please be a little considerate.

Unfortunate situation. Hope those people left very high tips since the lack of turnover caused the servers to lose out.

[TeresaE]

The restaurant can handle “lingerers” by offering the table a concession, like a free dessert next time they come in. A “would you mind”, “ sorry for the inconvenience. here’s something for your trouble if you could help us out” would turn tables. In the other hand, the patrons need to exercise situational awareness. Yes we have all worked hard and want to enjoy our retirement. But that shouldn’t mean we get a license to abandon good manners.

[toeser]

Last Saturday we had a 6:30 reservation for 2 at Bonefish. We arrived about 6:15 and they told us they were running 15 to 20 minutes late. Not a problem. The time kept dragging on and on and now it was 7:30 which prompted me to go up and ask what was the reason for the lengthy delay. The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."

When we finally got seated over an hour later at 7:30 I recognized a group of five people, and another group of four who were being seated as I initially walked in at 6:15. Yes...each one of these groups were done eating and you could see the black credit card holder on the table. We ate our meal and we're done 8:15. Those two groups were still there visiting when we walked out the door.
I know this is not McDonald's where you get fast food and race out the door. But I think people have to understand its a little bit more than them.

When its in-season, and there are groups of people waiting for an over an hour to eat, personally think it's a little rude for people to hog the restaurant. Not only are you inconveniencing people who have not had a chance to eat yet, you're a really screwing over the waite staff. The poor girl who was waiting on those two tables for over two hours essentially got tips from just two groups instead of the normal four that she would've.
The moral of the story…Please be a little considerate.

Very well said.

[nn0wheremann]

Last Saturday we had a 6:30 reservation for 2 at Bonefish. We arrived about 6:15 and they told us they were running 15 to 20 minutes late. Not a problem. The time kept dragging on and on and now it was 7:30 which prompted me to go up and ask what was the reason for the lengthy delay. The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."

When we finally got seated over an hour later at 7:30 I recognized a group of five people, and another group of four who were being seated as I initially walked in at 6:15. Yes...each one of these groups were done eating and you could see the black credit card holder on the table. We ate our meal and we're done 8:15. Those two groups were still there visiting when we walked out the door.
I know this is not McDonald's where you get fast food and race out the door. But I think people have to understand its a little bit more than them.

When its in-season, and there are groups of people waiting for an over an hour to eat, personally think it's a little rude for people to hog the restaurant. Not only are you inconveniencing people who have not had a chance to eat yet, you're a really screwing over the waite staff. The poor girl who was waiting on those two tables for over two hours essentially got tips from just two groups instead of the normal four that she would've.
The moral of the story…Please be a little considerate.
They should pay their check, and move on to the bar to visit, or the restaurant staff should encourage them to do so.

[jim@jedward.com]

Somewhat agree, but as soon as you ask them to leave I guarantee they'll go cheapo on the tip. :/

[Warcats]

Guards seize zem throw zem in ze pit

[Dlpdo]

When I'm done eating and notice people are waiting to be seated I pay my bill and leave. i would only linger if I see open tables. This is common courtesy. Unfortunately we can't force people to be mindful of others. People can be exasperating.
"I Love Humanity- It's The People I Hate"
Would fully agree. Only thing I would add is if I linger I add a sum to the servers tip to compensate for the extra time.

[Jerseybob]

Last Saturday we had a 6:30 reservation for 2 at Bonefish. We arrived about 6:15 and they told us they were running 15 to 20 minutes late. Not a problem. The time kept dragging on and on and now it was 7:30 which prompted me to go up and ask what was the reason for the lengthy delay. The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."

When we finally got seated over an hour later at 7:30 I recognized a group of five people, and another group of four who were being seated as I initially walked in at 6:15. Yes...each one of these groups were done eating and you could see the black credit card holder on the table. We ate our meal and we're done 8:15. Those two groups were still there visiting when we walked out the door.
I know this is not McDonald's where you get fast food and race out the door. But I think people have to understand its a little bit more than them.

When its in-season, and there are groups of people waiting for an over an hour to eat, personally think it's a little rude for people to hog the restaurant. Not only are you inconveniencing people who have not had a chance to eat yet, you're a really screwing over the waite staff. The poor girl who was waiting on those two tables for over two hours essentially got tips from just two groups instead of the normal four that she would've.
The moral of the story…Please be a little considerate.

Having owned a restaurant for many years, the simple answer is the manager stops at the table and starts a small conversation about dinner and service. Then he says he is just a bit backed up with reservations and really needs the table, can I offer to buy you all an after-dinner drink at the bar? Those sitting recognize the managers need, and about 1/4 of those folks go to the bar, the others say no thank you and graciously give up the table.

[Ecuadog]

Yeah... that gripes my butt too.

Your reply matches your profile photo.

I think I learned that expression while working on the Brooklyn waterfront when I was a teenager. I like it. It has served me well over the decades.

[FredJacobs]

I've been in food service. When I have customers "loitering" I have the busboy start to remove some dishes - just enough so they get the hint. If they are not getting the hint, after ten minutes I have the server ask if the check is ready. At the same time, I have busboy remove the coffee cups and some other items. By taking away the coffee cups they really get the hint. If not, I will approach them and tell them that I have customers waiting. It is rare that I have had an argument with a customer.

At the country clubs here in TV, they have a problem with large groups - 8 or so. Some of the group will come in early and ask to be seated. Then, they may wait 30 minutes or so until the last member(s) arrive. Setting up for 8 requires two tables. Having a few people at the table waiting for the rest of the group has set a table behind by 30 minutes. This causes a back-up in reservations.

The problem becomes compounded when the server shows up to take orders. Believe me, a party of 8 will take more than a few minutes to order - another delay. Now, let's suppose that this is a busy night and there is more than 1 party of 8. The server takes that table's order and now there are two orders in the kitchen waiting for food to be cooked, plated, etc. for 8 - AND it all has to arrive at the table at the same time. These large party orders set back the kitchen's time and now a table of two is waiting 40 minutes for their order to arrive and wondering why it is taking so long.

These are management problems and can easily be corrected.

1. Do not seat large groups until the entire group is present. If it is 15 minutes or longer, and the party is not complete, inquire how long to wait and advise that you will seat smaller groups and they will have to wait, Time is money!

2. Put space between group reservations. Do not book more than 1 group reservation for the same time. Spacing them out will increase customer turnover and give the kitchen a chance to catch up.

3. If a party is loitering start to bus the table and distribute the checks. We were a party of 8 at Harry's in Ocala. They did not accept reservations but said that we should call a half hour before leaving and they would be ready for us. When we arrived, they had selected this one table for us but it was presently occupied. I looked into the dining room and saw a group of 8 just finishing their dessert and coffee. OK, I figured that there would be about a 15-20 minute and we would be seated. No such luck. The table was not bussed, checks were not distributed and the party sat there for another hour. Management refused to give them hints and they had no plans in preparing another set-up. Needless to say, we never went back to Harry's.

Management of the front of a restaurant is just as important as the kitchen. The kitchen has an expeditor who assures that all order that go to the front are prepared quickly and complete before brought to the front. The host/hostess in the front must actually run the front - not just be a greeter.

[chicksinger]

Sadly, we live in an age of "It's all about me, myself and I" and that's all that matters....I see it and hear it all the time in young people and our generation as well!

[Two Bills]

I think I learned that expression while working on the Brooklyn waterfront when I was a teenager. I like it.

I coulda been a contender.

97426

[La lamy]

When I'm done eating and notice people are waiting to be seated I pay my bill and leave. i would only linger if I see open tables. This is common courtesy. Unfortunately we can't force people to be mindful of others. People can be exasperating.
"I Love Humanity- It's The People I Hate"

So refreshing to hear someone considering others!!! Thank you. Hopefully you inspire others. :bigbow:

[Sandy and Ed]

Inconsiderate? Yes. Oblivious? Probably. Idiots? Definitely! Manager needs to make the hard call and either train staff how best to move the guests out or do the task him/her self.

This time of year such socializing is best served at someone’s home after the meal. I can see the attractiveness of a restaurant as a venue for a group to meet, share a meal and converse in lieu of hosting at home but pretty selfish to camp out at a table when so many are waiting to be seated and when staff need their tips

[Sandy and Ed]

I've been in food service. When I have customers "loitering" I have the busboy start to remove some dishes - just enough so they get the hint. If they are not getting the hint, after ten minutes I have the server ask if the check is ready. At the same time, I have busboy remove the coffee cups and some other items. By taking away the coffee cups they really get the hint. If not, I will approach them and tell them that I have customers waiting. It is rare that I have had an argument with a customer.

At the country clubs here in TV, they have a problem with large groups - 8 or so. Some of the group will come in early and ask to be seated. Then, they may wait 30 minutes or so until the last member(s) arrive. Setting up for 8 requires two tables. Having a few people at the table waiting for the rest of the group has set a table behind by 30 minutes. This causes a back-up in reservations.

The problem becomes compounded when the server shows up to take orders. Believe me, a party of 8 will take more than a few minutes to order - another delay. Now, let's suppose that this is a busy night and there is more than 1 party of 8. The server takes that table's order and now there are two orders in the kitchen waiting for food to be cooked, plated, etc. for 8 - AND it all has to arrive at the table at the same time. These large party orders set back the kitchen's time and now a table of two is waiting 40 minutes for their order to arrive and wondering why it is taking so long.

These are management problems and can easily be corrected.

1. Do not seat large groups until the entire group is present. If it is 15 minutes or longer, and the party is not complete, inquire how long to wait and advise that you will seat smaller groups and they will have to wait, Time is money!

2. Put space between group reservations. Do not book more than 1 group reservation for the same time. Spacing them out will increase customer turnover and give the kitchen a chance to catch up.

3. If a party is loitering start to bus the table and distribute the checks. We were a party of 8 at Harry's in Ocala. They did not accept reservations but said that we should call a half hour before leaving and they would be ready for us. When we arrived, they had selected this one table for us but it was presently occupied. I looked into the dining room and saw a group of 8 just finishing their dessert and coffee. OK, I figured that there would be about a 15-20 minute and we would be seated. No such luck. The table was not bussed, checks were not distributed and the party sat there for another hour. Management refused to give them hints and they had no plans in preparing another set-up. Needless to say, we never went back to Harry's.

Management of the front of a restaurant is just as important as the kitchen. The kitchen has an expeditor who assures that all order that go to the front are prepared quickly and complete before brought to the front. The host/hostess in the front must actually run the front - not just be a greeter.
Great response. “Host, Hostess” should be a good part of the solution

[Altavia]

Having owned a restaurant for many years, the simple answer is the manager stops at the table and starts a small conversation about dinner and service. Then he says he is just a bit backed up with reservations and really needs the table, can I offer to buy you all an after-dinner drink at the bar? Those sitting recognize the managers need, and about 1/4 of those folks go to the bar, the others say no thank you and graciously give up the table.

Excellent Management style!

[CoachKandSportsguy]

The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."



Restaurant economics:
the entire staff and building rent are fixed costs, people are a hybrid, but there is a minimum
The revenue and associated food/drink cost are variable costs, COS, cost of service.

Profitability of the restaurant depends upon the revenue less cost of service being greater than the fixed costs. If you then figure the average revenue and gross margin (revenue - variable costs) per customer, you have to serve # of customers per day to break even. Not all days are the same, so its ### customers per week.

The key to the big days (like weekends, but less so in TV where employment rate is very low) is high turnover, quick service and quick eats and out the door to do it again, ie more customers served. So there is a balance and some timing where lingering with many open tables is no big deal on slow days.

But managing that customer flow is critical to profitability, which is why the turnover concept is critical to financial success and staying in business. . as well as keeping employees who are good at their jobs. . in TV, its more like herding cats between the elderly who eat less and socialize more, and employees who can migrate to Orlando for better pay. .

[Altavia]

...

Management of the front of a restaurant is just as important as the kitchen. The kitchen has an expeditor who assures that all order that go to the front are prepared quickly and complete before brought to the front. The host/hostess in the front must actually run the front - not just be a greeter.

Well said!

[Altavia]

How do people feel if they start clearing the table while someone is still actively eating?

[midiwiz]

It is exactly about current etiquette. If a restaurant doesn't have a posted policy of time limits at a table, it is the customer who should be polite and notice that there are people standing and waiting while they linger at a table for no reason.
But I've got a feeling that this won't sink in. Just gonna guess you are one who lingers for no reason while people are waiting to be seated.

we linger and that shouldn't be an issue, you guys approach this like there are only 4 tables in the restaurant..... I realize the age of the community prompts some of this, but really it's not my problem. my tips are based on table time. If i'm causing 1 less flip then I pay for it.

If you are waiting, thats a management issue? customer issue? actually it's not an issue in any city, unless you live around a bunch of grumps.

[midiwiz]

This is an MBA case study. Management can improve turnover times to increase profits. If guests linger too long, waiters can wipe down tables with diluted spirits of ammonia.
/s

First off that is NOT a qualified reference NOR does it apply to the reality of the industry. There is no restaurant in this world that is going to give you 38 minutes unless they want to go out of business soon.

[ThirdOfFive]

It all boils down to one thing. Consideration. And there seems to be a decided lack of that particular virtue among some Villagers.

[retiredguy123]

we linger and that shouldn't be an issue, you guys approach this like there are only 4 tables in the restaurant..... I realize the age of the community prompts some of this, but really it's not my problem. my tips are based on table time. If i'm causing 1 less flip then I pay for it.

If you are waiting, thats a management issue? customer issue? actually it's not an issue in any city, unless you live around a bunch of grumps.
I would just point out that the OP only wanted a table for two and had a reservation. The manager made them wait an hour, and actually offered the lame excuse that, even though a third of the tables were available, the OP still had to wait because the people sitting at the tables were "just visiting".

[CoachKandSportsguy]

How do people feel if they start clearing the table while someone is still actively eating?

there was no post with that statement. . . and there was no reference to that . . . and that is a totally made up preposterous question about restaurant mgmt. . .

we linger and that shouldn't be an issue, you guys approach this like there are only 4 tables in the restaurant..... I realize the age of the community prompts some of this, but really it's not my problem. my tips are based on table time. If i'm causing 1 less flip then I pay for it.

If you are waiting, thats a management issue? customer issue? actually it's not an issue in any city, unless you live around a bunch of grumps.

as i posted before, as people age, they either get more entitled or more appropriately, don't give a sh!t about anyone else or anything else anymore, as they realize the end is rapidly approaching and they themselves turn into grumps about common courtesy or financial success at their favorite gathering place. . .

[JMintzer]

we linger and that shouldn't be an issue, you guys approach this like there are only 4 tables in the restaurant..... I realize the age of the community prompts some of this, but really it's not my problem. my tips are based on table time. If i'm causing 1 less flip then I pay for it.

If you are waiting, thats a management issue? customer issue? actually it's not an issue in any city, unless you live around a bunch of grumps.

There's more to turning over a table that the waitstaff getting tips...

But the first step to fixing a problem is realizing you are the problem...

Now, it's time to take the 2nd step... When you're done, "you don't have to go home but you can't stay here..."

[Tonnib]

If this is your normal practice, please be considerate and go to your home or the home of one of the other guest for drinks and/or desserts. I hope you left a double tip for the waite staff as they lost money because of the over indulgence of your group.

[Bogie Shooter]

we linger and that shouldn't be an issue, you guys approach this like there are only 4 tables in the restaurant..... I realize the age of the community prompts some of this, but really it's not my problem. my tips are based on table time. If i'm causing 1 less flip then I pay for it.

If you are waiting, thats a management issue? customer issue? actually it's not an issue in any city, unless you live around a bunch of grumps.

Me, me, me……………..

[Pickbent]

Some restaurants have implemented a time frame. Not a bad idea.
:grumpy::grumpy:
Implement a time frame? NUTS! that’s the last straw for lousy service in the US! We love to eating dinners out in other counties- Europe, S.America, NZ, Australia, et al where you are never pushed out just for table turnover. You go to dinner and virtually rent the place to dine leisurally- your check only comes when you request it. We have seen birthday dinners rushed by a hustling server. You are paying for good service, not just food alone. I’ve stabbed a waiter in the hand, who tried to take my plate away prematurely! Also, I tip well when allowed a leisurely meal, but less when I felt rushed. Dining out shouldn’t resemble eating in an army mess hall!

[Pessemist]

Some restaurants have implemented a time frame. Not a bad idea.

Sure. And the next post would be from a Villager ‘outraged’ that they were asked to leave by the restaurant.

Villagers are an entitled bunch.

[MillerD]

Yes, it happened to us at Bonefish a couple of months ago.

[Ele201]

there was no post with that statement. . . and there was no reference to that . . . and that is a totally made up preposterous question about restaurant mgmt. . .



as i posted before, as people age, they either get more entitled or more appropriately, don't give a sh!t about anyone else or anything else anymore, as they realize the end is rapidly approaching and they themselves turn into grumps about common courtesy or financial success at their favorite gathering place. . .
Older adults are just more realistic. When you hit 60-plus, you’ve been through your share of bad breaks, trauma and bereavement, not to mention financial loss. So they may seem grumpy but they also are more self-realized and confident. And likely they’ve been too nice during their life! Okay, that’s all, done now :)

[Ecuadog]

I think I learned that expression while working on the Brooklyn waterfront when I was a teenager. I like it. It has served me well over the decades.
I coulda been a contender.

Ahhh... One of my favorite movies. A great movie. I also like it because my father's friend (a real contender) was in it. His character threw the beer can that hit the priest, Karl Malden, in the head. Abe Simon fought Joe Louis twice for the heavyweight title.

[Two Bills]

Ahhh... One of my favorite movies. A great movie. I also like it because my father's friend (a real contender) was in it. His character threw the beer can that hit the priest, Karl Malden, in the head. Abe Simon fought Joe Louis twice for the heavyweight title.

What a great memory to have.
Those old fighters used to look the part.
15 rounds, and tough as old boots!

[coffeebean]

In this situation, my husband and I would have gone over to the bar for dinner. I know that Bonefish and the bar area is lovely. But I also know that not everyone likes sitting at the bar, eating dinner. That’s preferable to waiting an hour though IMO.

Hubby and I would go elsewhere for dinner. We do, however, enjoy snacks and wine at restaurant bar.

[coffeebean]

we linger and that shouldn't be an issue, you guys approach this like there are only 4 tables in the restaurant..... I realize the age of the community prompts some of this, but really it's not my problem. my tips are based on table time. If i'm causing 1 less flip then I pay for it.

If you are waiting, thats a management issue? customer issue? actually it's not an issue in any city, unless you live around a bunch of grumps.
Most people base their tips on the check total minus the tax. Not everyone tips on "table time" as you do. I'm sure you don't tip based on the price of another meal that would have been generated if another party was seated at that table that you lingered at.

I just hope all of you who do linger while there are people waiting to be seated see yourself as the lingerers that you are! Move it. Move it. Move it.

[coffeebean]

:grumpy::grumpy:
Implement a time frame? NUTS! that’s the last straw for lousy service in the US! We love to eating dinners out in other counties- Europe, S.America, NZ, Australia, et al where you are never pushed out just for table turnover. You go to dinner and virtually rent the place to dine leisurally- your check only comes when you request it. We have seen birthday dinners rushed by a hustling server. You are paying for good service, not just food alone. I’ve stabbed a waiter in the hand, who tried to take my plate away prematurely! Also, I tip well when allowed a leisurely meal, but less when I felt rushed. Dining out shouldn’t resemble eating in an army mess hall!

How do you feel when you are waiting over an hour for a table when you had a reservation for more than an hour ago?

[fdpaq0580]

How do you feel when you are waiting over an hour for a table when you had a reservation for more than an hour ago?

15 minutes and I'm on my way to someplace else. No place is that great.

[asianthree]

We stopped at Glenview without reservations the other night. Hostess said she could get us 15 tables to eat at, if they would just leave at a reasonable time after meal was finished.

Her quote “ their dinner finished from 30 to over an hour, with no signs of leaving, just continue to drink coffee, and kibbutz”. Wait staff loosing money by no table turnover. So it’s not just one restaurant that people take up residence.

The lobby was packed, and many just like us left to find something else

[JMintzer]

We stopped at Glenview without reservations the other night. Hostess said she could get us 15 tables to eat at, if they would just leave at a reasonable time after meal was finished.

Her quote “ their dinner finished from 30 to over an hour, with no signs of leaving, just continue to drink coffee, and kibbutz”. Wait staff loosing money by no table turnover. So it’s not just one restaurant that people take up residence.

The lobby was packed, and many just like us left to find something else

Wait, they went to live on a communal farm in Israel? :p

[JMintzer]

We stopped at Glenview without reservations the other night. Hostess said she could get us 15 tables to eat at, if they would just leave at a reasonable time after meal was finished.

Her quote “ their dinner finished from 30 to over an hour, with no signs of leaving, just continue to drink coffee, and kibbutz”. Wait staff loosing money by no table turnover. So it’s not just one restaurant that people take up residence.

The lobby was packed, and many just like us left to find something else

And it's not just the "waitstaff" who's losing money...

[retiredguy123]

We stopped at Glenview without reservations the other night. Hostess said she could get us 15 tables to eat at, if they would just leave at a reasonable time after meal was finished.

Her quote “ their dinner finished from 30 to over an hour, with no signs of leaving, just continue to drink coffee, and kibbutz”. Wait staff loosing money by no table turnover. So it’s not just one restaurant that people take up residence.

The lobby was packed, and many just like us left to find something else
Does anyone think the restaurant management is correct to not ask the table hogs to leave?

[fdpaq0580]

While reflecting upon a lot of the comments here, I remembered that many countries and cultures do not typically entertain at home. This is not generally the case here in the US. Coffee bars, night clubs and other places are probably more appropriate choices. However, any establishment that has costs associated with its existence must make enough to survive. I might suggest that if patrons are not taking the hint after being asked if they would like dessert and receiving the check that the manager, with smiling face, approach the table and ask if they would like to continue their conversation to "please move to the bar as we have customers who have been waiting for quite sometime. Thank you, so much." Remain there with friendly smile, hand on back of chair (as if to assist),other hand and arm directing the way to the bar.

[asianthree]

Does anyone think the restaurant management is correct to not ask the table hogs to leave?

Management at one restaurant will be having that conversation this week. Does management let tables know as they are seated, they is a time limit on the table once meals are completed and bill has arrived. Maybe offer them seats at the bar. Looking into if they are ordering bar drinks, then would leave table alone. But most are agreeable that the table’s that have camped out, are not their regular customers.

Restaurants are having issues with finding good staff, but staff will not stay if there’s no turnover

[Boomer]

So what if those who have occupied a table for a ridiculous amount of time are politely told by management that the table is needed for those who have been waiting for a long time.

So what if they are insulted and don't ever come back.

Who cares.

Such clods hurt a restaurant's bottom line and cost the servers a lot of money.

For every one of them who gets huffy and stomps out, there will be many more who are happy to know that management handles these situations.

Of course, servers will have to be sure they close out the bill and get the tip first so they don't get stiffed because the clods are insulted.

Boomer

PS: Maybe I am naive, but I think it would be better to handle this kind of behavior as it happens instead of issuing a "warning" to everybody as they are seated. I think most people are aware of how busy a restaurant is getting and will behave accordingly.

[coffeebean]

15 minutes and I'm on my way to someplace else. No place is that great.

I tend to agree with you. Our party of seven on Christmas Eve, however, did wait over an hour for our table. We did have a reservation and arrived at the restaurant on time.

[coffeebean]

Does anyone think the restaurant management is correct to not ask the table hogs to leave?

Management should request the offenders go to the bar and vacate the table. Period.

[fdpaq0580]

I tend to agree with you. Our party of seven on Christmas Eve, however, did wait over an hour for our table. We did have a reservation and arrived at the restaurant on time.

Large parties on holidays may not find it easy to change plans on the fly.

[mickey100]

Last Saturday we had a 6:30 reservation for 2 at Bonefish. We arrived about 6:15 and they told us they were running 15 to 20 minutes late. Not a problem. The time kept dragging on and on and now it was 7:30 which prompted me to go up and ask what was the reason for the lengthy delay. The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."

When we finally got seated over an hour later at 7:30 I recognized a group of five people, and another group of four who were being seated as I initially walked in at 6:15. Yes...each one of these groups were done eating and you could see the black credit card holder on the table. We ate our meal and we're done 8:15. Those two groups were still there visiting when we walked out the door.
I know this is not McDonald's where you get fast food and race out the door. But I think people have to understand its a little bit more than them.

When its in-season, and there are groups of people waiting for an over an hour to eat, personally think it's a little rude for people to hog the restaurant. Not only are you inconveniencing people who have not had a chance to eat yet, you're a really screwing over the waite staff. The poor girl who was waiting on those two tables for over two hours essentially got tips from just two groups instead of the normal four that she would've.
The moral of the story…Please be a little considerate.

Good post. I don't know some people seem so oblivious. And it just isn't in restaurants.

[mickey100]

So what if those who have occupied a table for a ridiculous amount of time are politely told by management that the table is needed for those who have been waiting for a long time.

So what if they are insulted and don't ever come back.

Who cares.

Such clods hurt a restaurant's bottom line and cost the servers a lot of money.

For every one of them who gets huffy and stomps out, there will be many more who are happy to know that management handles these situations.

Of course, servers will have to be sure they close out the bill and get the tip first so they don't get stiffed because the clods are insulted.

Boomer

PS: Maybe I am naive, but I think it would be better to handle this kind of behavior as it happens instead of issuing a "warning" to everybody as they are seated. I think most people are aware of how busy a restaurant is getting and will behave accordingly.

Excellent idea. Management needs to meet the needs of patrons who have reservations and are waiting, as well as their servers who depend on tips. Sometimes people have a few cocktails, get carried away with conversation, and don't realize the situation in the dining room. If you give them the opportunity to do the right thing, and say it nicely, I think most people would move on. Those that don't, are inconsiderate boors. Who cares if they come back or not. There are plenty of people during the high season to take their place.

[coffeebean]

Large parties on holidays may not find it easy to change plans on the fly.

Exactly. That is why we waited.

[Rainger99]

New York restaurants are putting time limits on diners. Would that work here??

NYC restaurants impose 90-minute time limits on diners (https://nypost.com/2023/04/07/nyc-restaurants-impose-90-minute-time-limits-on-diners/)

[fdpaq0580]

New York restaurants are putting time limits on diners. Would that work here??

NYC restaurants impose 90-minute time limits on diners (https://nypost.com/2023/04/07/nyc-restaurants-impose-90-minute-time-limits-on-diners/)

"Hey, Bobo, times up! Here is a to-go box for your leftovers. Finish at home. Move it, time is money.
Oh! And youse have a blested day."

Yeah! I think that would go over well here.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

"Oh thanks for dining with us, party of five! I see you're still enjoying another drink - would you like to take them to the bar, so we can seat the party who reserved this table next?"

[fdpaq0580]

"Oh thanks for dining with us, party of five! I see you're still enjoying another drink - would you like to take them to the bar, so we can seat the party who reserved this table next?"

"Oh, no. We are very comfortable right here, thank you."

Not what was hoped for? Try the managers assistants.

"Ray, Pookie, O'Toole! Escort these very thirsty people to the bar. NOW!" Better result this time?

[xcaligirl]

Last Saturday we had a 6:30 reservation for 2 at Bonefish. We arrived about 6:15 and they told us they were running 15 to 20 minutes late. Not a problem. The time kept dragging on and on and now it was 7:30 which prompted me to go up and ask what was the reason for the lengthy delay. The manager told me something I've never heard...or even considered.

He said "roughly 1/3 of the restaurant is completely done eating their meals, they have their checks on the table but are just visiting."

When we finally got seated over an hour later at 7:30 I recognized a group of five people, and another group of four who were being seated as I initially walked in at 6:15. Yes...each one of these groups were done eating and you could see the black credit card holder on the table. We ate our meal and we're done 8:15. Those two groups were still there visiting when we walked out the door.
I know this is not McDonald's where you get fast food and race out the door. But I think people have to understand its a little bit more than them.

When its in-season, and there are groups of people waiting for an over an hour to eat, personally think it's a little rude for people to hog the restaurant. Not only are you inconveniencing people who have not had a chance to eat yet, you're a really screwing over the waite staff. The poor girl who was waiting on those two tables for over two hours essentially got tips from just two groups instead of the normal four that she would've.
The moral of the story…Please be a little considerate.
Last time we ate there, we were seated late (about 45 min wait in January...), the service was horrible and the food was even worse, if possible! We won't be going back, nobody, not even the manager was half way decent or professional! It was our favorite restaurant in the Villages but not anymore.