Unfiltered Story #199965

(I’m bartending at a popular Italian restaurant during lunch. We have to-go specialists on staff but if it’s not busy I don’t mind taking an order. This particular customer is an older woman, sweet but a little loopy it seems.)

Customer: *After asking at least 10 different questions about the menu…* “I also need something for my husband. What do you think a man would like to eat?”

Me: *At a loss for words, thinking, ‘He’s your husband, lady!’* “Well, if he doesn’t like pasta, we do have some nice sandwiches available.” *Smiles awkwardly*

Customer: *Asks a few more questions before finally making a decision.* “That sounds great! Oh, and I also have a gift card I want to use!”

(She hands me a piece of paper, which is one of those e-gift cards people can purchase online and print at home. Normally that’s just fine, except…)

Me: *In the nicest tone possible* “Uh, ma’am? This gift card is for [Popular American-cuisine restaurant]. I don’t think I’ll be able to use this…”

Customer: “What?! But I know I purchased one for here! Oh well, I guess I’ll just have to go to [Other Restaurant]!”

(She then proceeds to shuffle out of the restaurant, with a free soda since I didn’t have the heart to make her pay for it. I’m left laughing and dumbfounded, certain that was 15 minutes of my life I’ll never get back.)