Bartender Assumed My Sexuality

I am currently spending the week in Florida for work (I know, tough job).  While that is exciting in its own right, I thought that I would share my thoughts on what occurred last night while out to dinner.

My coworker and I wanted to grab a quick bite to eat near Macdill Air Force Base.  There are numerous options within 15 minutes of the base. Normally, a person can travel a significant distance if it is done on an unobstructed highway.  In an around Tampa, this is nearly impossible.  It is reasonable to expect to travel four miles or less in the 15 minute time period.  With that being said, my coworker decided on Beef ‘O’ Brady’s.  I only know of the name because the company sponsors a college football bowl game, but was willing to give it a try.

For some reason, we could not find the Beef ‘O’ Brady’s restaurant (maybe a good sign?) along the road. Due to the amount of traffic, we opted not turn around but find another place.  The Lure seafood restaurant was just down the road so we decided to give it a try.  This will be a relatively short post, be sure the check back in a couple of weeks for the full trip details.

We entered The Lure and quickly found seats at the bar.  The entire visit was normal, until the entrees arrived.  The spicy tuna roll (mine) and The Hunter roll (coworker) were delivered on the same plate.  This really threw me for a loop as I could not understand why our food shared a plate.  I asked the waitress why this occurred and she simply shrugged her shoulders.  I could not believe it.  Do not get me wrong, I am a very secure individual, but having to share a plate with another man made me feel uncomfortable.

I made it through the meal unscathed, minus a few awkward chopstick crossings, and requested the checks.  The check, as in one for both of us, was quickly delivered.  It was at this point where I realized what happened. The bartender must have assumed my coworker an I were an item…like, together together.  She never once asked us if we wanted separate checks.  Come to think of it, she waited until we were both ready before placing the order earlier in the visit.

Final Word

This was the first time that my sexuality was so blatantly assumed.  I understand people are free to date anyone their heart pleases, but do not place labels if you do not know the people. It was definitely weird being put in an awkward situation, but it did not stop me from eating.  I wish the bartender had asked some questions, rather than assuming.

Has this ever happened to you?