Small hassles and extra steps can sharply reduce action.
More quotes“About twenty minutes.”
“Fine. We’ll have a drink.”
7.58: the kitchen tells the host it is falling behind.
8.03: the quoted twenty minutes ends.
8.07: one guest looks towards the host.
8.11: the host passes and says, “Any minute now.”
8.18: the guest asks whether the table is nearly ready.
“Absolutely. It shouldn’t be long.”
“How long?”
“Soon.”
“Five minutes?”
“I’ll check.”
8.21: the host asks the kitchen. The answer is twelve to fifteen minutes.
8.24: the couple asks whether they should leave.
8.25: one says the babysitter finishes at eleven. The other points out they have already ordered a bottle.
8.27: the host reports the twelve-to-fifteen-minute estimate.
“Can we order starters now?”
“I’ll ask.”
8.31: the kitchen says yes.
8.34: the couple orders.
8.40: a nearby table pays. It still needs resetting.
8.44: two starters are called away at the pass.
8.46: one guest checks the babysitter’s message and asks for an update.
8.47: the empty table is cleared.
8.49: one guest asks whether they can carry their own drinks across. The host says yes and removes the reservation card.
8.51: the kitchen revises the main-course time. The host writes the new estimate beside the table number before approaching.