A question of protocol

jetskier · 09-19-2015, 09:12 PM

We went to a local restaurant this evening (it was busy) and spotted two open seats at the bar. When we sat down, the bartender told us that the seats were taken by two people who were out getting a smoke. There was nothing on the bar and no belongings on the chairs. We left and went elsewhere.

So, the question is whether this is proper protocol or not? I always thought that seats at a bar are unreserved. Were we incorrect in thinking that the seats should be available (without anyone there) or was the restaurant incorrect to hold seats when the patrons came in claimed them and were out smoking? Inquiring minds want to know.

Jetskier

09-19-2015, 09:12 PM	#1
jetskier Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: North Reading, MA and South Down Shores Posts: 850 Thanks: 57 Thanked 183 Times in 114 Posts	A question of protocol We went to a local restaurant this evening (it was busy) and spotted two open seats at the bar. When we sat down, the bartender told us that the seats were taken by two people who were out getting a smoke. There was nothing on the bar and no belongings on the chairs. We left and went elsewhere. So, the question is whether this is proper protocol or not? I always thought that seats at a bar are unreserved. Were we incorrect in thinking that the seats should be available (without anyone there) or was the restaurant incorrect to hold seats when the patrons came in claimed them and were out smoking? Inquiring minds want to know. Jetskier