Editor:
Last weekend I walked into an empty White Rock restaurant alone.
I sat at a table set for four because all the tables in the restaurant were set that way.
I was told by a woman, who I presumed to be an owner, that I could not sit in the chair I was sitting in. I offered to move elsewhere but I was told I could not sit at any four-set table because the owner just remembered they were “reserved.”
I understand the business would prefer to have money from four as opposed to one person. However, I have been a regular at that restaurant for years and usually bring five or six family members at a time.
So, for the sake of getting three more people into an empty restaurant for a bit more money, the restaurant has lost a very regular customer that often brings four people a number of times over the winter for far more profit.
I never knew one can be denied service on the basis I was alone. I mentioned the word “discrimination,” but the owner rudely dismissed the idea.
When I walked by 30 minutes later, the restaurant was full – of empty chairs.
Businesses on Marine Drive should remember it is the local, loyal customer that keeps you going through the winter period. Just short-term gain will lead to long-term pain for those who ignore and abuse their regulars. Also, the occasional “please” and “thank you” to customers would also help.
Peter Davies, Surrey