The image that comes to mind when we hear/use the word hospitality is that of an envelope - a wrap of warmth, coziness, comfort (not necessarily luxurious), a caring catering to what you want to eat; a gentle enfolding environment - soft lights and soft music (or maybe if the mood is right for it, then strobe lights and loud rhythm and music).
When we go to a restaurant, this is what we expect and look forward to - especially if you've been working hard all week/day, and want to be pampered and coaxed into eating...If one went to Oh Calcutta or any of the other restaurants in that chain, or Zara's and any restaurant in that chain, this is what you will receive. You are spoilt and every drink and culinary wish is discussed and served with great courtesy. It is a graciousness that is extended to you. I remember asking for a whiskey sour at the Chowringhee bar at the Grand, and though it was not on the wine list, the bartender made an excellent one for me!
Yesterday, however, we had the misfortune of going to HOPS, a slounge bar. No one to receive you, cold, indifferent atmosphere and poor, ignorant service - both for food and drinks. The vegetable shashlik was only paneer served with a thick gravy. The same gravy was put on my roast chicken. As for the Arabic salad, it was a complete con - a mash of boiled brinjal and some unknown vegetables doused in Tabasco (thing is having been in Muscat for years, and loving Arabic salad, we knew that what we had been served was absolutely NOT Arabic salad). From the bar, they wanted to know if i wanted soda or juice in my martini, which they were planning to serve with crushed ice - I know I'm being rottenly snobbish, but that was a bit too anaadi even for me, and I am not terribly knowledgeable about liquor...). Anyway, all experience teaches you something...this one taught us to stick with our preferred restaurants!