Vegetarian’s beef is a problem for couple

The following column was originally published in 2013.

Dear Annie: My husband and I frequently go out to dinner with several other couples. One of the wives is a vegetarian. That’s fine, but she sometimes makes a scene with the server. She argues about the way things are prepared and accuses the wait staff of lying.

It’s become quite embarrassing, and some of our other friends refuse to go out with her anymore.

It recently happened again. My husband and I were mortified when she sent her meal back and accused the waiter of giving her the wrong dish. It ruined our night. I think we should say something, but my husband thinks it will ruin the friendship. Any suggestions?

Carnivore in Florida

Dear Carnivore: It is not unheard of for restaurants to prepare vegetarian meals with chicken broth or beef stock without declaring it.

However, it is rude to accuse the wait staff of lying and cause a scene. We recommend you do a search in your area for vegetarian restaurants when socializing with this couple.

Otherwise, let them know you won’t be going out to eat with them because it is obviously too stressful.

Annie’s Mailbox is written by Kathy Mitchell and Marcy Sugar, longtime editors of the Ann Landers column.