Just wanted to update you all on my lunch out experience
The TL;DR version is that being out and seeing my friend didn’t make me feel as much better as I thought it would, though I felt pathetically relieved to see her.
The fuller version (and my comments are not criticisms, just observations)
The restaurant was really struggling and had a very limited food offer. The chef came out and apologised. There was no need to, but we ended up having a nice chat. He was explaining that it was really tough anyway and ordering food when you have no idea what’s happening but have seen bookings plummet, is very difficult, especially with fresh food of course. And the irony is, they have a lovely bar, and all the cocktail stuff will keep, but they can’t serve it without food!
He also said that due to the possibility of Tier 3 approaching, they’d opted to order a minimum and close on Monday and Tuesday as they are quieter days anyway.
Apparently they’re getting more walk ins than bookings. I didn’t say this to him but I wonder if that’s because it’s easier to give fake details that way?
My friend was quite annoyed because she’d wanted the full restaurant experience so to speak, whereas I’d expected it all to be a bit strange.
The staff were lovely, the meal was lovely, they’ve decorated the place beautifully so they were doing their best.
My friend is in a tough spot at the moment - unemployed and father having chemo - so I understand that she’s not thinking too rationally.
On that basis, we’re supposed to go to a gallery one day this week but I’m not sure I want to, I’m half hoping she’ll cancel. I think the fact that I will have my exemptions lanyard on might cause issues for us both and I’m not sure if gallery staff are shooing people along or what. Potentially have to explain exemptions three times - at entry, in shop, then in cafe.
But it’s also partly that the whole experience of trekking into town is very unpleasant as well. It’s so sad, I was sick of the flat but now leaving the flat feels like a horrible challenge. I was glad to get home.
My friend also said to me “the vaccine is the only way out of this”. I’m realising that everything people say is very nuanced and people change their minds every five minutes. But I couldn’t help saying “I think there’s an option for proper infection control and calming down”.
It is like covid infects every conversation.
On the way home, I was thinking, I still feel it’s not healthy that my only company is an 82 year old, but perhaps seeking out more company is not the answer anyway.
If you read all of that thanks, you deserve a cocktail 😂