Bringing Your Own Water to a Restaurant: A Personal Journey

Introduction

Water and I have a very special relationship. It's a personal ritual that I follow every day. Whether I am traveling or dining out, I always try to bring my own water. But what happens when I have a bottle of water with me, and the rules of the restaurant don't allow it? This article delves into my personal experiences and the policies of some restaurants that do not permit outside food or drinks.

A Surge of Ritualism

In the United States, water and I are very ritualistic. On any given day, it can go either way. Most restaurants either do not allow outside food or drinks, which includes store-bought bottled water or a thermos from home. However, I do what I want to do. No one really bothers me. I leave it on the seat rather than on the table.

There is only one restaurant where this becomes a real issue. As soon as the staff sees me pulling up to the parking lot or when I get to the door, they bring an empty cup for me to use. They do not mind that I drink whatever I want; they just do not want me "advertising" it. I pour my drink into their cup. The question that comes to mind is, "What actually prompted this change?" Perhaps because the restaurant really does not want outside food or drink, and the first time this happened, not in a band camp, they indeed had every reason to be concerned.

Starbucks and Personal Preferences

For the record, although I have a deep love affair with my water, the incident most likely was always over a Starbucks cup. It was an incident where I was brought to their attention, and it was not in a band camp setting. This makes me wonder how much we take Starbucks cups for granted. Starbucks cups are not just disposable but socially accepted as a valid container for water outside the store.

Disney and the Need for Empty Containers

Another time, not in a band camp, was at Disneyland. They do not allow glass on their property, which is a complete no-no. Disney ensures thoroughness and infuses staff at every level with their policies. I don't know what happens behind the scenes, but when I was served a bottle of kombucha and had to choose between drinking it or throwing it away, or not being allowed in, I needed an empty container to pour my kombucha into.

California Adventures and Personal Compliances

Going to California Adventure, a place where they serve cold drinks, makes my gluteus maximus glad. No glass is on the property. They have their own rules that I am eager to comply with quickly because of the personal freedoms they offer. If it is a restaurant that gives me a hard time every time I dine there, I will walk down the street to another one that better respects my personal rituals.

Conclusion

While it might be a minor inconvenience for some, respecting personal rituals and bringing your own water can sometimes lead to interesting experiences. Whether it's a band camp, a Starbucks, or a place with strict rules like Disneyland, understanding and respecting each other's practices can make dining out a more harmonious experience. Whether you're a confirmed ritualist or simply someone who values personal freedom, it's important to appreciate the nuances of dining out and the policies of various establishments.