When we go out for sushi with friends we usually order as a group and order a couple of specialty rolls for the table at a time, sometimes making several orders through the evening as time and appetites allow. The idea is manifold: not to over-order food, to spread out food delivery as we drink sake and socialize, to “pipeline” work for the chefs who we understand have other tables to service, and finally because sushi is best when it’s fresh so why order it all up front tonlet it get dry and get manky while we get around to it?
Almost as an afterthought, but also how is the fish tonight? Several smaller orders let us explore what’s “on” and what’s “off” this evening, and modify pur ordering strategy.
The question comes up because our server (a delightful young lady who was all to happy to “spill tea” with us) let us know the chef was annoyed our table was making multiple orders. Yes they were a bit busy, but it’s not like there was a line at the door either.
What say you? Was Chef jumped up his own ass tonight, or were we egregiously out of line ordering food over a couple of rounds?
The chef wouldn’t give a shit. There’s only one person it affects, the server. This is because in the server’s mind, she’ll get a better take-home if that table sits multiple parties who eat quickly rather than one who eats slowly.
If you were doing that at an all-you-can-eat buffet, you would absolutely be out of line. But if you’re paying per dish, there’s nothing wrong with that. You were giving them your business, and the server informed you that your business is below her standards. Take it elsewhere and give this place a review on google saying what the server told you.
Wait… What? This method of ordering a new dish only after finishing the last is how every buffet that isn’t self serve I’ve ever been to operates.
All the buffets I’ve ever been to had zero ordering of dishes.