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AIBU?

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Original poster

Small plates

37 replies

Flyhigher · 08/09/2024 07:33

Does it drive anyone else nuts when you sit down at a restaurant and the server says
Have you been here before?
The concept is small plates , they come as and when they are ready.

Small plates have been around for 20 years at least!
Is it because I'm over 50 and they think that I've no idea what small plates are???

OP posts:
fortheveryfirsttime · 08/09/2024 08:16

Why does it matter? Fucking hell. 😄

Sirzy · 08/09/2024 08:13

Well it’s not a concept I have ever come across so I would need it explaining!

Kingoftheroad · 08/09/2024 08:08

I’m in a country where eating out isn’t so much as small plates but large plates brought out as and when , put into the middle of the table to share.

It’s very difficult to regulate as I forget what others have ordered and what’s still to
come.

Server thing wouldn’t bother me though as this way of eating isn’t quite the norm in the UK -

Onand · 08/09/2024 08:07

Ah yes small plates, where they always recommend at least 3 dishes per person so you spend an extra tenner each than if it were to all come on a big plate together. And I love when you order thinking you’ll have them in a specific sequence but the kitchen has other ideas and you’re left eating charred broccolini with a miso crumb ten minutes after everything else.

Doingmybest12 · 08/09/2024 08:00

I think it's a good thing, it's embarrassing staring at a menu wondering how it works and how best to order with unhelpful waiting staff just looking at you. Just say, yes thanks we've been before.

BendingSpoons · 08/09/2024 07:47

I think they ask everyone though, unless you go enough to be recognised. I've always been asked this in Wahacca. I don't think they are subtly implying you are old and don't have a clue!

KellyJonesLeatherTrousers · 08/09/2024 07:42

The server can’t tell by your face if you’re aware can they, its what they are told to say YABU.

Perhaps make a little sign saying ‘I know how small plates work’ and hold it up next time?

Beefcurtains79 · 08/09/2024 07:39

Yeah, it annoys me as well- its 2024 I get the concept thanks….But then I hate small plate restaurants anyway,- expensive and annoying. So I suppose if I’ve made the mistake of accidentally going to one, they are at least giving me the heads up to leave.

OfficerChurlish · 08/09/2024 07:38

I think they say it to everyone, unless they recognise you as having been in before.

Bs0u416d · 08/09/2024 07:37

YABU. The server is just letting you know it's small plates rather than typical 3 course menu.

BeMintBee · 08/09/2024 07:36

I’m sure they’ve had their fair share of customers whining because they booked without realising what sort of restaurant it was so this way it’s just making sure people are aware. I think it’s called customer service, not something to be all affronted by!

TeenToTwenties · 08/09/2024 07:34

Well I wouldn't have a clue, so I would appreciate the heads up.

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