I have been to The Cafe in Sewickley at least a dozen times and had never once met the owner until the time I used my groupon. I went with my daughter at 3:30 on a Thursday for a bite to eat before her afterschool activity started. As I sat there, I heard many conversations of people calling in for reservations and either the owner or waitstaff explaining to them that they were booked that evening. I actually felt sorry for the staff and owner because it appeared that people on the phone were rude and angry as this was the last 2 nights to use the Groupon. When I stopped the owner to ask whether I could use it or not, he commented that it was to be used only after 5 and there were no reservations opened. He also mentioned that the groupon was bought 6 months ago and now everyone is trying to use it. It was obvious by his level of stress that he had said the same comments to many people and I think he was preparing himself for yet another hostile person. I commented back, "" I totally understand where you are coming from. Not a problem. It is my fault I did not use it sooner. No worries"" He immediately softened, spoke kindly and appreciated my kindness. It was my problem that I waited till the last minute to use it, not his. If he did come off rude to some it may be a reaction to the way people were treating him. Put yourself in his shoes....here you have a small restaurant and you have reservations filled (GREAT restaurants have reservations so we can PLAN AHEAD). You need to hold those tables for reserved parties. If he gave them to anyone walking off the street, then those who made reservations would be angry when they arrived a few minutes late! He did the right thing by holding reservations. People are just angry because they wanted what they wanted when they wanted it with no regard of others who did plan ahead and used their groupons on time and made reservations. By the way, because I showed him common respect and understanding he ended up offering to allow me to use the groupon that day! The food was awesome as always! For those still willing to try this place, the food is very good.I love their tomato dill soup, their salmon, the Brie appetizer, and the truffle fries. The Cafe will continue to have my business!
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