Our society is built like a piece of sushi. Several layers comprise the different groups that are categorized by social standing, economic stability and political values. However, unlike sushi our society has gray areas, it’s not always seaweed and rice. Sometimes it’s a small thing which categorizes a group such as manners and respect. Something, you might not necessarily receive at Moriki, the trendy restaurant that every hipster is eating at right now.

Although the atmosphere and quality of food were inarguably fine, a few things unnoticed by most, triggered the journalist in me. Such as the fact that as a 16 year old I was treated differently to the rest of the customers. Whether this was due to the staff serving me or the staff I overheard serving others; there was a difference. Perhaps to find this difference, one has to inspect the night from beginning to end.

Arriving early for a reservation is often considered good planning, by arriving fifteen minutes early, a client is not asking for a miracle. However, the face of the man who met us at the door spoke volumes about the restaurant itself. Given the fact that Moriki is happy to charge up to 60 euros per person I was shocked to be asked to sit outside as the restaurant was apparently full to its capacity. This may seem respectable, but with empty seats, it was obvious that the restaurant was perhaps understaffed and could not afford to take on any more clients.

During the meal, our waiter was friendly and polite. So the negative nature of this review has nothing to do with his work. However, the length of time that we were made to wait in order to receive our sushi was less than impressive. Again, this could have been due to our age and the fact that we seem like ‘easy’ customers. However, a paying client should be treated equally no matter their age.

The food itself was quite good, vegetarian options were overpriced considering you could order similar dishes at any other franchise and would be similarly impressed with the result. The main difference was the fish, which was well prepared and notably fresher than any other sushi franchises I had visited. Additionally, the sushi was presented and combined in more creative fashions than I had previously seen.

However, should we be compromising the foundations of our etiquette for food that is merely good? Enjoyable food does not constitute being treated badly. Especially since Moriki takes pride in its ability to serve customers well and provide an enjoyable experience. Making the integrity of this franchise questionable, it comes down to what you are willing to compromise to eat at a trendy restaurant when the same quality of dining is achievable elsewhere. And you might even be treated as an equal, in comparison to the table across the room.