Restaurant Servers Hate When Customers Do These Rude Things
Dining out is a special occasion for many families and a chance to relax while others handle the cooking. While most customers have good intentions, certain habits can unintentionally make a server's job much harder.
By avoiding these all-too-common habits, you can create a smooth and pleasant dining experience for everyone involved.
Ordering one item at a time
In a busy environment, a server tries to maximize every trip to your table. If you ask for a refill, then wait for them to return before asking for extra napkins, you are forcing them to walk back and forth unnecessarily.
It's much more efficient to look around the table and request everything your group needs during a single visit.
Overstaying your welcome after paying the bill
Lingering at a table for an hour after finishing your meal is a restaurant faux pas. Servers often rely on turning tables to make their living. If the restaurant is crowded, staying too long prevents other waiting guests from being seated.
If you still want to finish your conversation after you've already paid the bill, moving to the bar or a nearby cafe is a helpful alternative.
Letting children run around unattended
A restaurant is a workplace with heavy trays, hot liquids, and sharp corners. When children wander away from the table, they create a significant safety hazard for themselves and the staff. Servers often cannot see small children below their line of sight while carrying large orders.
Making sure your kids are seated not only keeps them safe from the dangers of a busy restaurant, but it also allows the staff to do their job more easily.
Snapping your fingers or whistling at the server
It can sometimes be difficult to get your server's attention in a loud, crowded restaurant, but that doesn't mean you should snap your fingers or whistle in their direction. These gestures are considered rude and demeaning towards servers.
If you're trying to get the attention of your waiter, wait to make eye contact and give them a friendly wave, or simply wait patiently until they return to your table.
Not tipping
Leaving a tip after a delicious meal is a common courtesy towards restaurant servers. Many servers rely heavily on tips to earn their living. Some restaurants even require servers to share their tips with other restaurant staff.
If you can afford to eat a nice dinner, you should be able to afford to add a 15-20% tip to the cost of your meal.
Dining and dashing
This one may seem obvious, but it's important to note that not only is dining and dashing a crime, but it's also extremely inconsiderate to your server. Leaving the restaurant without paying for your meal may mean that the money has to be taken out of the restaurant's cash for the night, or even the server's own pocket.
Whether you're in it for the thrill of the steal or because you forgot your wallet, dining and dashing is never the answer.
Being a mindful diner makes the experience better for you and the person serving your food. Most of these issues come from a lack of awareness rather than a desire to be difficult.
By making these small adjustments, you can make the most of every dining experience. Your kindness and patience are always noticed and appreciated by the restaurant staff.