Dinner with a side of bad news

So you have some bad news to share and don’t know where to share it. You don’t want the memory to linger in your living room and would prefer to avoid a scene. You’re looking for somewhere public yet intimate, somewhere you can talk quietly yet that would naturally prohibit a scene. A bar? Too noisy. A public garden? There’s always someone around walking their dog. What about a restaurant? Well, it’s not a bad idea, but you need to choose the right one. First of all, this is not the time to go to one of your favourite haunts – like your living room you don’t want it to be forever tainted by the memory. Also, steer away from restaurants known for leisurely dining as this will only serve to make an uncomfortable meal last longer – somewhere known for quick table turnarounds is your best option. However, avoid anywhere with tables so close together that fellow diners will be privy to the details of your troubles. Planning is key, so make sure to ask for a quiet table when making your reservation. The last thing you want is to be placed slap bang in the middle of the dining room and provide the evening’s entertainment. And yes, a reservation is crucial. Can you imagine traip­sing...