What I hadn’t noticed was the steady decline in the number of meals served.
The remaining customers were spending more, but there were fewer of them.
“Leave the office keys here,” I said.
He blinked.
“What?”
“I’m taking you off the floor while I review what’s happened.”
“You can’t be serious.”
“I am.”
He placed his keys on the desk.
“You’re going to regret listening to a waitress who gives away food.”
I watched him leave.
For the first time in years, I felt like a stranger inside my own restaurant.
Amber returned 10 minutes later.
She handed me her phone.
The first message was from Kyle, sent to the staff six weeks earlier.
“Effective immediately, we are repositioning Rosie’s toward a more upscale customer base. Management has approved stricter seating standards.”
Another message followed.
“Do not encourage customers who cannot afford regular menu prices. Complimentary meals are discontinued.”
