Would a “Bund Bar” manager comp a round of drinks?

I haven't been fair. At least, that's what some have said following my recent blog about the "Bund Bars." Yes, they're overpriced, soulless and full of people wearing the same belts. To prove this, I decided to undertake a social experiment: knowingly use a card with no money on it to pay for drinks for myself and my girlfriend. When told that it was denied, I'd feign disbelief, explain I was on a date and see what pity, if any, would be had on me.

First up was Lounge 18. When I handed my card to cover the RMB160 tab, I was sh*tting myself... this could turn ugly. The waitress came back, told me I didn't have enough "funds" and, sufficiently embarrassed, I asked to speak to the manager. She came and, in a very Chinese, but never rude, manner, pushed me to ask my date for the money. I pleaded with her, promising to come back the next day. The manager took down my information and told me, "Next time, bring two cards." While she wasn't the nicest person, it was textbook procedure. I'll be damned, US$22 just given to me.

Next up was Laris. After we washed down those nice little nuts with our two cocktails (total tab: RMB135), the waitress came back with the bad news. After an escorted run to the ATM proved fruitless, I was introduced to a well-dressed, good-looking manager who I was sure would take one look at my girlfriend, decide he wanted her as his own and embarrass me in front of everyone. Instead, I got a "No problem" and a smile. "Just come back with your friends and spend lots of money." What the hell's going on?! I can't even get a free Tiger at Window's and US$50 has been given to me tonight? This is bullsh*t, someone must've tipped them off. I decided to head to the one place I knew would never be nice... ever. Bar Rouge.

Me: "No money."
BR: "We can tell, you unstylistic pig."
Me: "Can you comp it?"
BR: "No. And as a penalty, you must stay, drink champagne and listen to our DJ."
Me: "Think I'll borrow some cash from my date."

OK, that's not entirely true, they were closed for renovations, but I'm sure it would have been similar. So two places let me off the hook, and even worse, one I swore never to enjoy (Laris) might become an occasional spot... that is, until this column launches the "My card won't work" epidemic.

Aric S. Queen