The other way is to get tough about it and threaten to walk out if he doesn't give you a better table.
If the place is doing any kind of business at all, they will let you walk. But if they give you a better table it usually shows that things are so bad (either because of a bum show or lousy food) you won't want to stay anyway.
Headwaiters at some of the swank night clubs like the Stork or El Morocco, where most people aren't permitted in unless known, or at busy places like the Copacabana, are reputed to make more than the owners.
Some estimate that $5,000 a week for these factotums is conservative. They may have to kick some back. They all pay for their jobs instead of being paid for them.
(INSIDE STUFF about theatre tickets:
Though most houses invariably number their seats as A1, B2, and so on, there are exceptions.
Ticket C1, for example, is not always first seat on the aisle, third row.)
See page 299 for a list of theatres where the numbering system varies from the norm.
The reveler who plans to visit a café or supper club will find that a knowledge of the name of the headwaiter, maître d'hôtel or proprietor of the place quite often helps obtain a better table or service.
See page 301 for a directory of such functionaries at New York's leading spots.