As I often do, I looked inside my Happenings coupon book on Wednesday night to decide where to go with my friend for supper. We settled on the Mediterrenean Cruise Cafe in western Eagan, which I had been wanting to try and there was a buy-one dinner entree, get one free coupon good for up to $10.

My friend ordered kabobs and I ordered a Middle Eastern salad called Fattoush, which has toasted pita chips mixed with vegetables. We also ordered a couple beers and baklava for dessert (partly since we'd be getting one meal for free, it was affordable to get these other items).

While I was using the restroom, my friend paid the bill, but the waiter refused to accept our coupon because the salad wasn't considered a "dinner item."

I was incredulous. I felt misled and I couldn't believe they were being so nit-picky. How would one know that the salad (which was not a "side salad;" it cost $10) wouldn't qualify as a "dinner entree." A lot of restaurants have dinner salads, which are especially essential for vegetarians.

Now, if it would have been me paying, I would have only left money for our bill, minus that item, or else would have skipped on the tip.  

The restaurant just lost more than they could have saved by not taking my coupon. The purpose of the Happenings book (it's free to advertise in) is to bring in new customers. A restaurant may break even on the meal, but if customers like the place, they'll come back.

I did enjoy the food, but because of our experience, neither my friend nor I will be returning. Take that, Mediterrenean Cruise Cafe!

(Disclaimer: I have never had problems using Happenings coupons anywhere else but this place!).