A few friends give me grief for often frequenting the same establishments. I am always open to trying new restaurants or bars, but without a reason to try something new, I will default to local favorites (Bix, Perbacco, Bobo’s, Gaylord’s, Shanghai 1930 before it closed [R.I.P.] to name a few). It’s safe to say I eat at at least two of those establishments every single week without fail.
Of course it’s nice for the host/hostess and bartenders to know who you are, or to be able to just ask for "the usual". It’s nice when the owners recognize you. It’s helpful when they’ll make a table available for you on short notice. But this morning’s visit to the neighborhood independent coffee shop reminded me of one other priceless benefit: mercy for the occasion when you forgot your wallet. Having just watched a thrilling England vs. Germany match, and excitement already mounting for Mexico vs. Argentina, my head was just not screwed on straight when I left this morning, and I arrived at the coffee shop without any way to pay for my cappuccino [apparently the passport in my laptop bag has no credit capabilities -- who knew?].
But being a regular customer, it wasn’t even a second thought for them to let me come back and pay later. And for that, you can bet their tip will be double whatever I usually put in the jar. It was a nice reminder of why I come back again and again.
June 27, 2010
General