Tonight was a shit show for reservations.

And we only had 81 on the books to start the night.

One gentleman had two reservations. One for a table with a note to move him to the bar. Another reservation directly for the bar. Same time. Unfortunately his booking the table instead of a bar stool caused both the restaurant and the server money.

Another couple had a reservation at a table. They too asked for a bar stool. I moved them once I saw it. Once again causing the same server another table. They arrived. We seated them at the bar. Then they promptly let me know that the stools were too close. They wanted a table. By this time I’d told the server she could go home. I had to unsend her home. Now the server hates me.

Two women pop in to sit at the bar. No reservations. I explain we have reservations to give me a chance to look at where to put them. There are people in line behind them. I find a place that gives them three hours. I know they’ll be gone by then and seat them. As I walk away they are bitchy because the bar is empty. The bar is still mostly empty when they leave an hour later. I try to explain that should they stay an thirty minutes longer it won’t be. I try to explain that I sat them where I knew they could take their time without causing me any stress. They weren’t having it.

Another table showed up for their reservation. Couldn’t find it anywhere. I find a spot for them in the gallery. They aren’t happy that they aren’t in the main dining room but it’s 5:15 how would I know two tables would move to the bar.

At 5:30 I realize I have a late reservation. I try calling. The number goes to a local resort. The front desk made the reservation for guess who? The couple I couldn’t find. But it wasn’t in their name. It was a completely different name.

Guess whose section they were supposed to sit in. Yes. Same girl. Now she’s lost three tables. And an hour later will be un un sent home. I also have no doubt that the tables would have been reserved had they been available on line.

All this and only 81 covers to start.