I've been going to Francesca's for years. I've gone there frequently to study or socialize with friends. Today for the first time I brought my own tea with me - yerba mate, in a traditional gourd, with an accompanying thermos of hot water. I planned on buying a snack to go with it.
I was informed that absolutely no outside food or drink is allowed, even if I'm going to order something else. This is ridiculous, because if I'd bought a piece of cake, plus a cup of water, that would have been fine, but a piece of cake plus my own tea is not permissible.
I told the person working that I've been coming to Francesca's for years, but I'd be happy to take my business somewhere else. Her response? ""Fine, go right ahead."" So I went down the street to Madhatter, and they had no problem with my tea. Guess I've found a new place to study.
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