DEAR HARRIETTE: I took my friend to my favorite pizza joint in my town. I have been going there for 10 years, so I know the owners and employees personally. When we ordered, my friend insisted on receiving a free water with his two slices of pizza. The slices themselves are huge, and two slices and a bottle of water cost $5. It's not like this business is asking you to break the bank. They don't even have cups, so everything comes in a bottle or can. This started an argument about my friend's rights as a restaurant patron. I was mortified.
A day has passed since this incident, and I refuse to lose the bond I've formed at this restaurant over my buddy having a tantrum. Should I go in and apologize to the owners? -- A Slice of Wrong, South Orange, New Jersey
DEAR A SLICE OF WRONG: Yes, you should apologize to the restaurant management and server about your friend's poor behavior. Explain that you thought you were bringing a good friend to your favorite spot, but it backfired. Assure the establishment that you remain a loyal customer.
As far as your friend goes, contact him immediately as well. Let him know that you do not appreciate his argumentative attitude with the restaurant. Remind him that you took him to your favorite spot. That should have been a cue for him to be on his best behavior. Tell him how upsetting and unexpected his reaction was for you. Don't ask him to do anything, though. His (likely shallow) apology could open a wound that is beginning to heal.