Sign of The Times

In these hard economic times all industries are tightening their credit belts, even imaginary restaurants.

Today I went to dinner at Chez Erim and before I even sat down at the table the waitress asked for my credit card. When I kindly informed her that you usually don't pay until AFTER the meal the chef from the back piped up.

"It's the law. We have to take your credit card before you eat."

"Yes," replied the waitress "we want to make sure you have enough money before you eat."

Ouch.