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gaffk Sep 16, 2012 05:35 PM

Strange Diner Experience (or Free Cookies)

Mom and I sometimes frequent a local diner. There have been times when we are there 3 times a week. And there have been three months with only one visit. It's a semi-regular breakfast spot at best.

We had breakfast this morning at the diner. We ordered, we ate, the bill was presented. And then, inexplicably, a to-go container of fresh cookies (not on the bill) was dropped on our table. When I went to pay the bill, mom went outside for some fresh air. I was greeted with "How's Mama?" I'm torn between concern for an older woman and . . . I don't know . . . .weird?

  1. j
    Jeri L Sep 17, 2012 06:08 PM

    Well, if your mother is elderly and you sometimes come in three times a week and they hadn't seen you for awhile, they were concerned that maybe it was because she wasn't well. They were happy to see her (and you). I think I'd go there more often, if I was you. It sounds like a nice place.

    1 Reply
    1. re: Jeri L
      gaffk Sep 17, 2012 06:27 PM

      Mom still does all the gardening. But I now follow her 85+ self and do value the local diner.

      ETA: If she doesn't follow her normal routine, they'll call me @ 215-361-xxxx

    2. j
      jaykayen Sep 17, 2012 12:34 PM

      Cookies! Good!

      1. s
        Strocophate Sep 17, 2012 08:41 AM

        That sounds lovely. If you go there that often, they clearly recognize you and wanted to do something nice for a regular. Don't be paranoid. :-)

        1 Reply
        1. re: Strocophate
          gaffk Sep 17, 2012 12:23 PM

          Guess you and cwd are right--we must have moved from semi-regular to regular without realizing it. (I guess my aversion yo cleaning up after a big breakfast on a nice Sunday is growing stronger.)

        2. c
          cwdonald Sep 17, 2012 06:51 AM

          Well the home made cookies reminds me of the experience of dining at any one of the Craft restaurants in NY, where I always get cookies or a muffin when leaving, which if I am staying in the City is a nice way to have a small snack for breakfast.

          Diners are places where they call you hon, regulars never have to order because they know what you want, and are friendly places. Maybe you just didnt realize you were a regular...

          1 Reply
          1. re: cwdonald
            gaffk Sep 17, 2012 05:48 PM

            Yes, when we stayed at the Hotel Hershey, we were addressed by name, the sommelier was attentive and even after dessert we were sent away with breakfast snacks. (In fact, they seemed to sneak into the room whenever we were gone to leave new treats).

            When we stayed at the Biltmore, wine and bites were provided. Again, an attentive sommelier, addressed us by name, etc. It is expected at high-end spots.

            Are diners trying to become high-end?

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