We may be stuck with keeping our fingers crossed that we can get into the front room at Palena early -- Corduroy can't take us, nor can Notti Bianche. I'm trying to avoid Italian (I had it last night on a business trip, and we're having it tonight as well, and I just don't want to have it three nights in a row) so the available Italian options are out.
If we can get seated right away, my dad will be calm -- like you said, we'll order appetizers and wine and everyone will be happy. However, if we are standing around waiting to be seated my dad will lose patience quickly.
Wish I would've gotten just a little more advance notice on this trip...