A Greeeting?

[John W. Puderbach]

After frequenting a cafe, etc. a number of times, after the usual Bonjour, the waiter, sales person etc. often adds a phrase that sounds something like "je riviene".  Their conduct does not seem to indicate that they are saying that they will return and the phrase seems to be some type of a continuation of the greeting process.  Any ideas concerning this phrase and an appropriate response thereto?

[Simon Z]

Hi,
Sorry I'd like to help you but I dont understand what you are talking about. Could you be more precise plz ? When exactly does he say that ? Just after having said "bonjour" ?

[John W. Puderbach]

Thanks for your interest. I say "Bonjour". He says "Bonjour" Then he says this "je riviene" sounding phrase. If I had to guess I would think he is saying something like "You have come back again" or "Welcome back", but this is nothing more than a guess.

[Neil Coffey]

Is he not saying je reviens (="I'll be right back", "I'll be back in a second")?

[John W. Puderbach]

It is possible, but, his body language and conduct; i.e. he doesn't leave immediately and seems to expect a response, cause me to think that this is not the case. Alternatively, as no one has been able to identify this phrase thus far, absent further input, I may have to conclude that you are right and simply pay much closer attention or "bite the embarrassment bullet" and ask. Finally, I have just remembered that this phrase was said to me by a shop person in a health food store that I frequent regularly who was stocking the shelves.

[stu harris]

I think this is J'arrive. (I'll be right with you). The health food store context is perfect for this. In a café this would not be said by a waiter who was right at your table, but a little distance away. Certainly it's very common.

[John W. Puderbach]

Thanks for the input. This may, indeed, be it. I will listen very carefully with both of the suggestions in mind. If I still can't get it I have decided that the easiest solution is simply to ask. Thanks again.