Regarding the rude customers at L'Arpege -

After they left, seemingly oblivious to my icy glare, I mentioned it to the waiter. He looked surprised and claimed that he had not seen (or heard) this happen. Given that L'Arpege does not play background music, I really think it is impossible that none of the staff noticed. Oh well.

On the flip side, the waiter did proceed to say some humorous things at the group's expense involving their tardiness, wealth, and manners. Professional? No. But funny.