DEAR ABBY: My husband and I are professionals in our 50s. We dress well and are average looking. Our problem is, no matter which restaurant we frequent, we are often seated next to the kitchen or work station. It happens whether we are together or alone, with or without reservations, in the United States or Canada. It doesn't seem to matter.
At one restaurant, I requested "a seat away from the kitchen," but wondered why this was necessary. If my husband and I looked and acted like slobs, I would understand. Your thoughts, please. -- MINDING OUR MANNERS IN SASKATCHEWAN
DEAR MINDING OUR MANNERS: The tables you have mentioned are usually the least desirable in a restaurant. If you are shown to a table you don't like, speak up and say the table is not acceptable and you would like to be seated elsewhere. When you make your reservations, request a table in the area you prefer. I'm sure you'll be accommodated.