Asking for bad service?

Malia, Josh and I went out to Old Chicago Sunday night and I didn't care for our waitress. She was pleasant and all, but whenever she checked in on us, she was always in motion. It literally got to the point where if we asked for something she'd have to stop, turn around and ask us to repeat it, since she really had no intention of stopping for any reason.

Josh left the table to take a phone call. Malia took the opportunity to turn to me and say, "I'm so glad you're not cheap." Then I figured it all out. Josh and I split a pizza because it ended up being $1 cheaper than if we each got out own calzone. And while that may have left a bad impression with Malia, I'm sure it's when he asked the waitress if it "cost" to add mushrooms. She told him of course, it's a topping, and he told her they weren't really needed then.

And that was it. Out table had advertised to the waitress that we were cheap and she'd written us off. So it's just one more thing for you to think about the next time you're out. If nothing else, imply that good service will be rewarded. Save coupons until the end and don't bicker over pennies.

And don't forget, tip the price BEFORE any discounts. You still got full service.