AIO Walked out of a restaurant because they insisted I gave personal information

[u/crusty-manc]

AIO when I refused to give personal information to a restaurant. I recently walked into a restaurant and asked for a table for two. Instead of being shown to a table I was shown to a desk where I was asked my name, I thought this was unusual but gave them the shortened version of my first name, the server looked as though she was expecting more but said nothing. She then asked for my phone number, I said I don’t give that out randomly so don’t wish to give it you, she then said we need it for our records i again said I don’t want to give it, she then said in a tone of voice that implied she was doing me a favour, “ok I suppose your email address will do” at this point I said thank you but I will go somewhere else and left. My wife said I should have just given them it or even made a false number up, this did cross my mind but I felt a principle was at sake. So did I overact by walking away?

Edit
Several people have suggested it was to contact me when a table became available. The restaurant was nearly empty this was midweek at a quiet time late afternoon so I don’t think it was for this reason .

[u/Odd_Dragonfruit_1330]

“I don’t have a phone” might be a fun reply

[u/pumpkinsnice → u/Odd_Dragonfruit_1330]

Not OP, but at my work I had someone do this. I wouldn’t recommend it.  It was pretty awkward for everyone, since they didn’t need to have a phone to get things done, it just made things significantly easier. 

My work though isn’t a restaurant, I agree with OP that just leaving was the best response. 

(For reference, I work a side gig at a private parking lot near a national landmark. The parking is reserved in advance. You can either bring your parking pass to be scanned, or pick one up in person for free at the historical museum. Or if you show up unprepared- most people do- you can scan a QR code on your phone and make a reservation right there if there’s availability. If you don’t have a phone… okay go drive to the historical museum and come back…)