Roberto
just started a new job, as a server at P.F. Chang's in Irvine,
California. The restaurant has been there for a while but they are
refurbishing the place. Taking out the old. Bringing in the new.
"Hey, Mom, I was wondering if you'd like me to pen you in, to come to P.F. Chang's?" Roberto asked me.
"Really? I thought they didn't open until the 13th?" I questioned.
"Well, not officially, but they're having a family and friends weekend. You get to come in and try the food. Free of charge! It's a practice run before the grand opening on Tuesday. You game?" he inquired.
"Oh, yeah! Liz can't make it, but Brad and I will definitely show up."
A day or so later, Roberto confirmed our reservation, to enjoy some gourmet food. "Unfortunately, though, I was only able to make reservations for you on the day I do not work. Everyone else was quick to sign up their own families, so my choices were limited," he expressed.
"Oh, no problem. I would enjoy watching you in action, but I am sure Brad and I will be fine eating free upscale food without you being there," I smirked.
A proud horse and Brad, near the entry.
Me, inside, in the waiting area, in front of the bar.
THE FARE:
Fiesta Breeze Iced Tea
Chili Paste, Hot Mustard, Pot Sticker Sauce
Egg Drop Soup
Hot and Sour Soup
Shrimp and Bacon Okonomiyaki
Chicken Lettuce Wraps - partially eaten before the photo was taken. Opps!
Spicy Chicken
Balti Masala Chicken
Orange Peel Chicken being eaten by skeptical Brad.
OUR FORTUNES:
Brad's cookie.
Hmm? I hope it doesn't involve girls.
My cookie.
Rudy's birthday is a month from today. Interesting.
THE BATHROOM:
"So, how was it?" Roberto asked when we returned home. He was
studying. Not school work, but menu options. Memorizing. Hoping to be a
stand-up employee, providing customers with an optimal dining experience.
"Ah, great! We are so full. The server boxed up the food we didn't finish, to bring home," I said, holding up the meals.
"Awesome. Glad you liked it," he seriously said.
"I
left them a pretty good tip. The service was great. People were
friendly, and professional. Made sure we were satisfied," I embellished.
"I also love the bathroom. Took some pictures."
"Mom, you crack me up. The bathroom? Pictures?"
"It's very pretty. I love pretty bathrooms," I said firmly, with a smile. "Oh, and Brad ate shrimp! Do you believe it? Shrimp!"
"Yeah, I did. It's sooooo good. Mom only ate one of the rolls. I ate the other five! So good," Brad added.
Roberto smiled at us both, then went back to studying.
