Etiquette question about a family birthday party.

[seaglass]

My SIL has asked us to a restaurant for my nephew's bd party this Saturday night (my nephew is in his 30s). It's a Chinese restaurant with a buffet. We have been there for family birthdays before. The food is bad there - at least my husband, my son and I don't like it.

So, when she calls back to tell us what time to go, I was going to tell her that we would meet them there for cake after the meal. Do you think that is fine?

I think it would be rude if we went there and didn't eat and I really don't want her to pay for food that we don't like.

[ceile]

1. I think that sounds reasonable.

If she asks why though, will you tell her the truth?

[seaglass]

2. I kind of want to because I think she will have my niece's

birthday there in March (she did last year). But of course she is paying for the meal and it is my niece's and nephew's choice so I really wouldn't want them to change the restaurant just because we don't like it.

[philosophie_en_rose]

3. If the food is bad, you might as well tell her.

Your solution is reasonable, but are there things on the menu (not on the buffet) that you could eat.

But I don't see anything wrong with going and having tea or drinks, instead of eating from the buffet. Spending time together is the most important part, and no one should say anything about your food choices.

If anyone does ask, you can just say that you had a late lunch or something, and want to save room for cake.

[seaglass]

4. I mean it tastes bad to us, they think it's good. Believe me a big

deal would be made if all 3 of us didn't eat, I think I'll need to tell my SIL in advance.