This is meant as a rather tongue in cheek tale, which is absolutely true, but I doubt (and hope!) that it is not widespread. Last week I went for a late lunch in a relatively well known restaurant. I rang ahead at 3.10 and I was told that I could come but the kitchen and restaurant closed at 4pm. On arrival I was informed that they would be closing soon and it was best that I had my order ready soon, which I did. I
gobbled down my lunch with my eye on my watch and met the 4pm deadline. Just as I was leaving a group of eight young Germans came in and I thought they would be turned away. No, they were found a table and they ordered cocktails. I suspected that they would be just having a drink until I saw them ordering from the menu. No problem. A few days later I went out with a party of friends and one is a smoker. I asked
the waiter if you could smoke in this area. He replied no. Just as I was about to turn away I noticed a party of four Germans smoking away, no problem. It got me thinking, is there one rule for the Germans and another for the rest of us? This was not a Brit thing either. Both waiters thought that I was Spanish. No, I know that the Germans are big spenders but does this mean they are above the law?
restaurant closure 4pm, smoking rule, Germans, UK dining experience, uneven enforcement