But being entitled to something doesnt mean you get to be a jerk about it.
Foreign objects are fair game
The most clear-cut and indisputable reason for sending food back is safety.
If I was the one who cooked that plate, Id completely understand.
If the food is under- or overcooked, it depends.
Ill only send something back if it would pose a health risk, like undercooked chicken.
Not slightly-pink-near-the-bone-on-a-thigh undercooked, but more like like, ice-cold-center-of-a-breast undercooked.
According to Ian Ferrier ofEnoteca Nostrana, there are some appropriate moments to send it back.
This is different from intentionally oxidized wines, such as sherry, Vin Jaune, etc.
Be an adult, and own your decisions, explains Wood.
The same goes for wine and cocktails.
Ask yourself: Do you actually dislike this wine?
Did you sit with it and have a go at see what it has to offer?
Did you try it with food?
Some wine isnt good by itself.
Some wine is unfamiliar [at first], but you might grow to like it as it opens.
If youre ordering a bottle of wine, its a little rigid.
If you dont like a glass of wine, its ok to ask for something else.
You asked to have the wine.
If you just dont like the wine, it doesnt work that way.
The restaurant might take it back to make you feel better, but you shouldnt send it back.
Not all wines are the same.
You should be similarly thoughtful when sending back cocktails or food.
First of all, be aware of your surroundings.
Are you sure youre in a bar where they actually care about what theyre serving?
Or did you say something like Whatevers good!
or Whatever your favorite drink is!
or, Are there any spirits or flavors you particularly like or dislike?
Thats just tequila and lime juice, and its going to be gross.
But what should you actually say?
Just be polite, says Wood.
No, you cannot keep the first drink.
No, you cannot give it to your friend.
Also, do not, at any point in this conversation, assert that your drink was made incorrectly.
This even applies to drinks you have ordered in the past.
Management changes and tweaks specs, ingredient availability changes and products need to be swapped.
Your server is not the enemy.
But know that the experience has been tainted by many, many others who have abused the system.
Were not here to venture to pull a fast one or rip you off.
