From a former server, here are some insider tips to getting better restaurant service.
Typically the server takes the blame for a poor dining out experience.
Your server multitasks, a lot, and some tasks naturally take priority over others.
it’s possible for you to keep your table towards the top of the priority list.
They wait to approach you soyoudon’t feel rushed.
This should be done for every menu.
Many customers continue looking through it by inertia.
You can use body language and other gestures to signal just about anything throughout the meal.
If you don’t, you might “run” your server.
If you want everything (condiments, dinner drinks, etc.)
If your food is cold, it doesn’t mean that it’s your server’s fault.
It could have been the kitchen, or the food runner.
The same goes for your beer taking a while to hit your table.
Servers don’t pour the drafts; that’s the bartender’s job.
Your server may be negotiating a very busy kitchen that could be “in the weeds”.
Or your server may be assisting a co-worker at the request of management.
Instead of getting bent out of shape about it,stay calm and objective.
Show some kindness to your server, and they will jump to return it and resolve any issue.
Remember: your serverwantsyou to have a good experience; you don’t need to fight for it.
In short,treat other people the way you would want to be treated.
I loved waiting on them; it wasn’t about the money.
So much about your dining out experience is in your control.
Next time you dine out, remember these tips and see how much better your experience is.
Photos byJennie Faber,Emilio Labrador,Andrew Hyde,Ray Sawhill,Paul Rysz, andornello_pics.
