The upper the scale of the beanery, the shorter my fuse. When I expect to drop $200 plus for two, the service had better be near perfect.

I will give a break to a new place with unpracticed staff.

Dining in DC I pretty much stay with upscale. The same clowns that leave the roads a national disgrace also run the city health inspectors. I count on upscale to not poison me.

The only upscale joint in DC for which I'd complain about service is Jaleo. To the celebrity chef Jose Andres, I must quote Paddy Chayefsky, "It isn't relaxed continental atmosphere, it's lousy service."

Oh, I always contribute a review on Open Table, AADvantage or wherever I made the reservation. I heap praise or scorn as deserved. Upscale joints check on customers' reservations. I want the "Always Reviews" flag set on my res.