Never Joke With The Customers… Ever!, Part 19

I’m working in a fine-dining restaurant. While taking a table’s order:

Me: “Hi! Before I take any orders, are there any food allergies or dietary requirements we should be aware of?”

This guest looks me square in the eyes and replies:

Guest: “I’m allergic to cats.”

I stared at her for a few seconds, trying to figure out if she was being serious. Even her friend looked at her to see if she was messing with me.

Me: *Smiling.* “Well then, I would recommend not ordering the Insalata di Orecchie di Gatto, AKA cat’s ear salad.”

Guest: “Oh! Oh my! Those poor cats! Oh!”

Me: “Ma’am, I’m joking. It’s made with pork.”

Guest: “Oh… well, still! Just the thought of it. Those poor cats…”

I had to reassure the guest and then got their orders in all fine and dandy. When I told the chef about the allergies, she just laughed and said there was little risk of ‘cross-catamination’.

Related:
Never Joke With The Customers… Ever!, Part 18
Never Joke With The Customers… Ever!, Part 17
Never Joke With The Customers… Ever!, Part 16
Never Joke With The Customers… Ever!, Part 15
Never Joke With The Customers… Ever!, Part 14