12 Things Your Server Wishes You Knew | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

12 Things Your Server Wishes You Knew

You can make a simple job very difficult.

68
12 Things Your Server Wishes You Knew
wise geek

Working as a waitress for a few years, I find that so many people really have no clue about the things waitstaff at restaurants deal with. Most just assume that our job is to simply and without question, cater to your every need. While that may partly be true, there's more to it. Here is everything your waitress/waiter can't actually say to you but wishes you knew.

1. If we ask "Would you like another soda?" it's probably not free.


Every time I ask this, people look at me and say "well is it free refills?" and I painstakingly have to look at them and tell them it's not.

2. I'm not your slave.


Yes I get paid to take your order and bring you what you need but I'm not here to cater to you and only you. I have other tables you know.

3. Please just say yes or no when I ask "Need anything else?"


Yeah I want the winning lotto ticket too, unfortunately the chefs here haven't figured out that recipe.

4. Ask for separate checks in the beginning.


OK, so not every restaurant has a fancy POS system where they can just hit "split checks" at the end. Sometimes we have to create whole new tickets and remember who got what when you decide to tell us as we put the check on the table that you wanted that separate.

5. It's not my fault you just don't like the food.


Something in your food that shouldn't be there? Fine. Food not cooked enough? Fine. You just don't enjoy this new dish you've never had before? Not our fault. Don't get angry with me when you hate mushrooms but the menu clearly states there are mushrooms.

6. It's also not really my fault your food is taking a long time.


I gave the kitchen the order, I told them what order to make. My part of the process is done. I can't go back there and start cooking. Please don't look at me like I personally took your food to Guam and forgot that it was for you.

7. Don't argue with me over a price.


People like to take it upon themselves to freak out over the prices of things at the end of the meal when it was clearly labelled in the menu. Also, if you're adding extra cheese, extra chicken or extra whatever, it costs. We didn't get that for free.

8. If you need multiple things, try asking for it all at once.


Don't ask for napkins, wait for me to come back and say you also need a side of sauce and then when I get back from that ask for another fork. Of course, I'll get everything for you while trying to keep a smile on my face but it's very annoying.

9. Control your children.


I get it, babies cry a lot. If it's a quick five minute fit, fine. But do not come in with an upset baby, knowing it's going to cry and sit in the restaurant. That is inconsiderate for the workers and for any other table dining. No one wants to listen to a screeching child while trying to hold conversation.

10. Put your phone down when I'm taking your order.


Oh I'm sorry, is twitter more important than ordering your dinner? Maybe you shouldn't have gone out to eat. Just a thought.

11. Don't walk in on a busy night and tell me "I need to be out of here fast."


I can't guarantee your food will get out in a timely fashion when the kitchen has 20 other meals to make. If you were on such a schedule, maybe you should've come in earlier.

12. Please don't leave a crappy tip.


Waitstaff gets paid next to nothing, sometimes actually nothing if they're making a lot in tips. So your $1 on a $30 order is kind of a slap in the face. The rule should be 15 percent for not so great service, 18 percent for alright service, 20 percent for good service and maybe higher if they went above and beyond for you.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

12747
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

5617
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

4158
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

3639
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments