Welcome to June

‘Would you rather your Dad did a dance at school or your Mum had a row in a café?’ This line from Would You Rather..., the children’s book of impossible choices, always makes me laugh – and touches a nerve. Forget the dad dancing: why do people find it so difficult to send food back without making a scene? My partner used to cringe if I said I was going to tell a waiter my tuna was overcooked or the rosé wasn’t chilled. Now he doesn’t worry, as I’ve never actually complained in a restaurant. It’s more effective – and courteous – to quietly explain something isn’t right and, if appropriate, suggest how to correct it. Mistakes happen, and a good restaurant will be grateful for the chance to correct problems. In this issue, restaurant insiders share tips on getting the best experience while eating out – see page 114.