Diners Have It Made In These Shades

(From The USA Today -- By Jerry Shriver)

Forgetful diners at one popular Chicago restaurant now have it made in the shades, thanks to a bright idea by the general manager.

CHARLES PRZYBYLINSKI of 312 CHICAGO was sipping a glass of wine outdoors at another restaurant recently when he discovered his sunglasses were missing. It wasn't the first time. "I go through five pairs a summer," he says.

The predicament spurred him to begin offering complimentary sunglasses to patrons dining outside on his restaurant's patio. Waiters stay on the lookout for squinting customers, then approach with an elegant oak box that carries up to four pairs of glasses. And not just any glasses. The selections are from designers such as KENNETH COLE, DONNA KARAN, RALPH LAUREN and others.

The shades, which patrons can keep, would retail for at least $70, he says, but they cost him aboy $10 since he buys in bulk.

Pryzbylinski see them as simply another amenity for someone in need, similar to the umbrellas, reading glasses, and mini-flashlights already offered.

"It's the best $10 I can spend," he says.