Vying for a Table

by Laura Donnelly — September 13, 2007

Ever wonder why you are left waiting for a table as others sweep by you, even though they arrived later. Yes, it's maddening but it happens for several reasons:

• They may already be regulars so they get special consideration.
• They are famous. "Didn't you just recognize Gwyneth and Chris walk by us?" This happens all the time out here in the Hamptons...
• They may have greased the palm of the maitre de or hostess. Yes, this is a dishonest and unfair and sexist tactic but it still occurs and it still works. If you or your humbled date must attempt this, it is supposed to be smoothly executed by a warm two-handed handshake with the maitre de. You have deftly folded a $20 or $50 or $100 bill into a little square in the palm of your hand which the maitre de manages to extract from your hand while smiling and looking you in the eye the whole time. Voila! Your table is ready!