Word on the StrEAT: Hong Kong’s F&B scene spills the tea about annoying customers
Do appreciate the effort staff have made to be there; but don’t have a smoke break during a tasting menu, click your fingers, get too drunk or order off-menu
One of the oldest adages in business is, “The customer is always right.” That rule goes double for bars and restaurants where poor service or disagreements with guests can be a death knell – regardless of the quality of what’s on the plate or in the glass.
Loïc Portalier, executive chef of Louise
“In the hospitality industry, I truly believe that having a positive mindset is essential to making guests feel welcome and ensuring they have a wonderful time.
“I would love for everyone who walks into a restaurant to be open to enjoying their time there. You’d be surprised how many people come in, but aren’t really in the right headspace to appreciate or enjoy their meal. To me, restaurants are meant to be little escapes from reality – a place to share happiness, good food and meaningful time with friends, family or colleagues.”
Angelo Aglianó, director of Tosca di Angelo
“I find it somewhat inconsiderate when someone leaves the table to smoke in the middle of a tasting menu. Tobacco overwhelms the palate and, in my opinion, it shows a lack of respect towards the chef and the dining experience.