Many of us who eat in “vibandas” sometimes find it hard to behave well in a high-end restaurant.
You find that things are a bit different. The menu is a whole book as opposed to the kibanda menu which is just an A4 sized paper pinned on the mabati wall.
The food comes with so many accompaniments including forks and knives while in the kibanda, the food is all mixed in one plate.
In some cases, there is a jerrican containing water placed at the entrance. You just wash your hands, get in and order your favorite food.
With all the complications in an exotic hotel, getting embarrassed, especially for first-timers, is so common.
To avoid embarrassing yourself in a five-star hotel, you need to consider a few things.
1. Order what you are familiar with
Always order what you are familiar with. Something you have eaten before. Most people get embarrassed when they order something they have never eaten just because the name is fancy. When the waiter arrives with their order, they get surprised. Sometimes they do not even know how to eat that particular food. While in a very expensive hotel in Westlands, I once ordered a cup of “double espresso” thinking that I would get two cups of coffee. I was surprised when the waiter brought me a tiny cup of a very strong concentrated coffee. To date, I only order what I am familiar with.
2. Do a reconnaissance visit
If you are planning to take your girlfriend to a very high-end restaurant, it is important you visit the hotel a few days before the actual date. This is called a reconnaissance visit. During this visit, get to know what the hotel offers. Get to know the rates they charge for food and lodging. This will save you a lot of embarrassments when you come with your special one. You do not want to be detained in the hotel for failing to clear the bills. No, not in the full view of your girlfriend.
3. Composure
Do not fret. Do keep on twitching in your seat. Just relax and take it easy. Behave as if you are a regular customer. Do not be afraid to ask questions. If there is something that you do not know its use, just call the waiter and ask. The worst part is using a spoon meant for stirring to eat or adding white sugar thinking that it is salt. Do not keep on wondering about the bill. It will make you not enjoy your date.
2. Carry excess money
Always carry excess money. You never know what will happen. If you are projecting to spend Sh4,000, it is safer to carry Sh6,000. The extra Sh2,000 is for emergencies. You might break a glass or something and the hotel management might ask you to pay for it.