Decisive Actions

Sometimes even upscale restaurants can present challenges.  I know, the pedigree of an establishment does not guarantee anything except the prices next to the menu items.

Saturday evening last found us en route to the Fels Point neighborhood of Baltimore.  Our original destination was a Chinese restaurant.  After shoe horning the vehicle into a parking space we disembarked and strolled towards the eatery.   We stopped to browse the wares of a boutique before continuing towards the restaurant.

We were stunned to find the destination closed.  It hadn’t been providing meals for some time.  Regrouping we decided to walk towards the water.  The evening was comfortable; a light breeze caressing us as we walked.

Stopping at a Greek restaurant, Ouzo Bay, we entered and were greeted warmly by the hostess.  Deciding on outdoor seating the quintet followed the hostess to a sofa pairing facing each other separated by two knee height square tables. Our server delivered water and then the drink order. 

I was seated furthest from the circulation aisle.  My significant other and another friend were seated to my left.  Two others sat across from us.  Conversation was light and smiles radiated from all. 

After appetizers, dinner was delivered.  The fare was delicious and we shared tastes among the group.  Towards the end of the main course three of my friends excused themselves.  I continued conversing with my friend across the tables.  Several minutes later the trio returned followed shortly thereafter by the manager.

He was a nervous sort, thanking us for our patronage.  He rambled on.  I was curious about his lack of composure, oblivious to the reason, which I will disclose shortly.  He rambled on, extolling the virtues of the establishment.  A full sampling tray of desserts were delivered and we shared over coffee.  The manager returned with a full round of after dinner drinks, encouraging us to continue to enjoy the hospitality.

Several minutes later, full and content, handbags opened and wallets emerged.  Cash was extracted.  “Where’s the bill?”  The answer set me back.  The manager picked up the full tab, appetizers, main course, desserts and after dinner drinks.

“Why?” I asked innocently.  My significant other whispered, “I’ll tell you when we get outside.”

Once on the sidewalk I learned the food runner was mocking me, making fun of me.  It was my voice.  It was bad enough he was mocking me and laughing in front of my friends.  He was making derogatory comments to another server.  My friends observed it and approached the manager in a non-confrontational way.  The manager was shocked and informed that their establishment is welcoming to all.  They have no tolerance for discrimination.  To make reparations he picked up the full meal tab.  He also informed that the runner was chastised and released from employment.  The server who was enjoying a laugh at my expense was reprimanded.

My three friends came to my defense in a powerful and rapid way.  I had no idea what was going on.  The swift and decisive protective response to the discrimination brought tears to my eyes.  To have wonderful friends who protect and defend are priceless.  Is there a better way to show deep and abiding respect and love?

One day we’ll return to Ouzo Bay and test the veracity of the manager’s statements.

Love and hugs, Nikki DiCaro