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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To take up a bigger table than needed in a cafe?

453 replies

Egit · 30/03/2026 13:43

To try to use a bigger table in a cafe?

I know it’s not always possible, such as during busy times, and I would never ‘hog’ a larger table for myself.

But during quiet times… such as right now! I’m in a cafe on my own with 2 dogs and I’ve sat myself at a 4 seater table.

I actually hate 2 seater ones. They are just too small and I get claustrophobic with all the clutter of cutlery, condiments, sides of veg etc.

I like to spread out!

OP posts:
purplecorkheart · 30/03/2026 13:51

It is find once the place is quiet and is not heading into peak time. If it is heading towards the lunch or dinner time rush then you are being unfair. Not fair that the cafe could lose out on four potential customers because you do not like a table for 2.

If there is so much on the table for two that bothers you can you not just place them on the empty chair and move your veg on the main plate.

tilypu · 30/03/2026 13:47

You get claustrophobic because there's things on the table? How does that work?

And how much spreading out do you need to do, that a table designed for two people isn't adequate for you on your own?

LiquoriceAllsorts2 · 30/03/2026 13:46

If there are plenty of other big tables that are empty and you’re not staying too look it should be ok but otherwise no, you can’t take a much bigger table than you need and leave other people without a table.