A Cocky Guest Demanded a Free Table at My Restaurant—She Was Stunned to Learn I Was the Owner

In 15 years of running my restaurant, I’ve handled plenty of entitled customers, but none like Ashley, who strutted in claiming she was tight with “the owner” to score a table. Her reaction when she found out I was the owner was epic. My grandparents opened our eatery with Spanish recipes and heart, and my parents made it a local hit. I took it to the next level with modern vibes and a killer online presence, making reservations tough to snag. I still work the floor—serving, hosting—because no role’s too small for an owner.

On a packed Friday before the holidays, we were swamped—tables full, bar crowded. I was helping my hostess, Lily, when Ashley and her five friends barged in. “Table for six,” she demanded, smirking. Lily said we were booked. Ashley laughed, “I know the owner; he saves tables for me.” I asked who she meant, but she brushed me off. I could’ve spilled I was the owner, but her attitude made me wait. I offered to call if a table opened. She sneered, “You’re done when I tell him!” Her friend snapped my photo, joking about my “dead-end job.”

A woman holding her phone | Source: Freepik

I decided to play along. “My mistake,” I said, leading them to our VIP area. “First three drinks are on us.” Ashley ordered fancy cocktails, giving me her card for “policy.” They gorged on premium dishes—caviar, wagyu—oblivious to prices, not listed on the VIP menu. They laughed about my “waiter life,” fueling my resolve. By midnight, their bill was $4,350. Ashley freaked, saying it was wrong. I added missed oysters, making it $4,470. She demanded a discount, citing her “owner friend.” I showed my card: “James, Owner.” Her jaw dropped. “I don’t know you,” I said. “Pay, or it’s the police.” She signed, tears falling, as her friends pitched in cash. “Don’t claim buddies who serve you,” I said as they left. They slunk out, humbled, and I knew they’d never forget that night.

 

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