As Valentine’s Day approaches, many couples scramble to secure dinner reservations, but for those who forget, Chef Andrew Gruel has a quirky solution that’s turning heads. The founder of the popular Slapfish restaurant chain in California has devised a fun way to accommodate last-minute diners, hoping to alleviate the stress for both patrons and staff alike.
A Unique Approach to a Restaurant Dilemma
Chef Gruel, known for his appearances on Food Network’s *Food Truck Face Off* and as a guest on Fox News’ *Gutfeld!*, took to social media to share his plan for handling the inevitable influx of couples who arrive at his establishment without prior bookings. “Valentine’s Day is a rough day in the restaurant industry,” he tweeted. “Every year, we have 10 to 20 guys who claim they made reservations but actually forgot. It’s a recurring scene that can get quite chaotic.”
In a bid to make the best of these situations, Gruel announced that he would be setting up a communal table with ten seats for those who find themselves in a pickle this Valentine’s Day. “We’ll seat them all together throughout the night,” he added, promising to share the CCTV footage of the evening’s antics the following day.
The ‘Table of Shame’ Sparks Delight Online
Gruel’s innovative idea has struck a chord on social media, gathering a flurry of positive reactions. Comments poured in, praising the chef for transforming a potentially embarrassing oversight into a light-hearted communal experience. “What a stroke of pure genius! Turning a stressful oversight into a communal ‘I forgot’ club is both hilarious and brilliant,” one user remarked.
Another enthusiastic follower suggested, “Rename it the ‘Last Minute Legends’ table and charge double for the entertainment value!” The banter didn’t stop there, with many predicting amusing scenarios, such as someone accidentally reaching for the wrong hand across the table.
A Valentine’s Day with a Twist
Data from reservation platform OpenTable indicates that 86% of Valentine’s Day diners made their reservations at least a day in advance in 2025, with a significant 56% planning a week ahead. The fact that 83% of these reservations were for pairs highlights the potential success of Gruel’s communal table. By creating this unique dining experience, he not only provides a solution for forgetful partners but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among the attendees.
Why it Matters
Gruel’s ‘Procrastination Table’ is more than just a clever marketing strategy; it reflects the growing trend in the restaurant industry to adapt to customer needs while maintaining a sense of humour. In an age where dining out is often fraught with pressure—especially on romantic occasions—his approach brings a refreshing perspective. It encourages couples to embrace spontaneity, even in a world that often prioritises meticulous planning, and serves as a reminder that sometimes, the best memories are made when things don’t go according to plan.
