I visited the restaurant as a solo diner without a reservation today. I used to came here with my friends but it was a rush today. The weather was bad so I asked to see if I could possibly sit inside.

The first two staffs kindly informed me that a reservation was coming at 7pm and offered me the table as long as I could finish by then. I agreed, as it was only 5:42pm and I didn’t mind a quick dinner.

Service was quick at first — I was seated at 5:42pm and found someone to take my order at 5:50pm, then I received my meal within 10 minutes. I finished eating at 6:23pm, which felt like good timing considering I usually eat slowly due to a past stomach issue. The food was good, and I appreciated the efficiency in the kitchen.

However, I had a disappointing interaction just after finishing. The moment that I finished the last spoon of my plate, one of the staffs took away my plate and asked me if I want any dessert. Considering the timing, I kindly said it is okay but perhaps he could refill my water for me, which been nearly empty for some time. About two three minutes later, while I was still seated and waiting for water (my glass had been nearly empty for a while), another staff member — possibly the manager or owner — came abruptly to my table looking a bit angry and told me in a loud voice without any smile " Hey! You must leave now!" because the reservation was arriving. I was shocked by the tone and suddenness, especially since I was told I could stay until 7pm, and it wasn’t even 6:40pm yet. Maybe like 6:28pm. I had just been asked if I wanted dessert and had requested some water. I was shock and scared a little not knowing what to speak for a moment.

This made me feel extremely rushed and uncomfortable, and unfortunately overshadowed the rest of the experience. I was pretty shock like I mentioned. I had been living in NZ since I was 14. This is the first time I been feeling like I did something really bad while I just being a normal customer. And it is the restaurant that I often go for with my friends. It definitely gave me bad memory.

1. I was being respectful by agreeing to leave before 7pm.
2. I finished my meal ahead of time (around 6:23pm), so I was well within the agreed window.
3. I was still waiting on water and had just been offered dessert — so the sudden shift felt abrupt and confusing.

I didn’t overstay, and I wasn’t being difficult — I was simply dining. So I think the approach was unnecessarily rude, even if this staff had a logistical reason.

Even though the restaurant had a reservation coming, it’s reasonable to expect a polite communication.

Instead of saying, ‘ Hey! You must leave the table now! ” — especially in a sharp tone — is poor hospitality. It’s not just about clearing a table. It’s about how people are treated.

Another details during the meal— when the cheese powder was taken from my table.

The same staff member (the gentleman with the glasses) didn’t look at me or ask if I was still using it. He simply said, “Hey, may I take this from you?” and immediately took it to another table, without waiting to hear my answer. I still have food in my mouth. It made me feel like my presence or needs weren’t really considered, even for something as simple as a condiment. Later the table next to me say to me sorry they actually want the sauce (salad dressing) not cheese powder and they return the cheese to me.

I think better communication is needed in the serving team and definitely customer service too. If there is any miscommunication within the team it is highly appreciated not to take it on the customer. If you tell me there is no seat, I will just rather spend my money elsewhere with better caring. This whole experience had just ruined my night. And it was kinda a special night for me. I came here to celebrate myself. But it might been a wrong decision unfortunately. ☹️🫠