Last Updated
Insiders Dining Tips
By Angela Raynor

1. Reservations
a] Nice guys and gals and get the table.
Assassinating the reservationist is not only rude, it is short sighted. A reservationist in a busy popular restaurant could be your ally, if you have forgotten to book a table or didn't realize how small most island restaurants are. The reservationist and waitlist's maybe your best bet. Remember waitlists are just that- a list of guests waiting for a cancellation. The best time to check in with a restaurant is generally an hour after the office opens and again one and a half hours before service, most movement occurs during those times, when the reservationist is confirming the evening and re-arranging the room.

b] Always Cancel!
Plans change, no sitter, no-matter if you are unable to honor your reservation let the restaurant know EVEN if it is at the last minute. A good restaurant will thank you- happily. If you don't care about your dining Karma, realize most restaurants’ keep no-show lists and share that info with fellow restaurants; no one likes to lose money. Any questions see above....

c] Why can't I eat at 7:30 or 8:00?
Most Restaurants book their tables twice an evening in a staggered manner in order to ensure a smooth evening on the floor or the front of the house [the dining room] and in the back of the house [kitchen]. If you wish to linger more than two plus hours book second seating. If you feel it is unacceptable to wait a few moments for your table book first seating, if you are running late always call, some restaurants only hold tables for fifteen minutes or so.

d] Late reservations
Top restaurants only buy the freshest ingredients in limited quantities and sometimes do run out, if you are booking a late reservation and you HAVE to have the lobster, request to reserve or set aside an order. Or book a table for first seating and be assured of every choice.


2. Dining with children, toddlers, babies & childish adults
As a parent, I learned to plan ahead when dining with my children and I was always ready to bail out if my child impacted the dining room negatively.

a] Pre-view the menu
Ask the reservationist if the restaurant is equipped, appropriate and welcoming to children. They will tell you- you should listen.

b] Toddlers
Toddler’s are the biggest challenge and need to be in a highchair for everyone's safety and sanity; the server/waiter is not able to be a babysitter. Savvy parent’s start with breakfast out with their toddler, then lunch, and then work up to early dinner. Conversation is best kept to subjects growing children enjoy, if you are on vacation be in the moment or it may pass you by.

c] Bring a distraction bag with you
Snacks, sippy cup, books etc... Prepare as if you are boarding an airplane for a flight, and if your child is not happy, do everyone a huge favor and calmly walk outside. I have seen many parent's meltdown when their child doesn't cooperate, no nap is a recipe for disaster- take out is a lot less stressful.

d] Older children
I loved the whole process of going at as a child, I loved to get dressed-up and to try new flavors. I was fascinated by the waiters, the outfits, the people at the other tables and a chance to skip doing the dishes! My parents included us in the conversations, business was not discussed, and the focus was on us. I am grateful for the memories I have of the meals we shared. I have watched so many 'mini-me's' in my restaurants with great pleasure, the parent's get it and the children develop not only their manners but also curious palates.

More tips to come....