Perfectly good dining experiences at restaurants can be ruined by a few ill thought out actions by waiters. Some things should always be done by servers and some should never be done. To most diners, these things seem obvious. But to a lot of waiters they go by the wayside. Here are a few basics that every waiter should know.
For starters, don't hang around the guests while they are eating. Shortly after their food has been served, you should pop over and make sure they are satisfied with everything. Then leave them alone to enjoy their meals. Scan the room frequently to see if any of your patrons are trying to get your attention.
Also, don't pressure them into making a decision about ordering if they are not ready. If they say that they need a few minutes, actually give them a few minutes before you come back. Don't come back in 1 minute with pen in hand. If they are not sure what they want, don't roll your eyes or otherwise express annoyance. It really shouldn't matter to you how long it takes them to order anyway.
If the restaurant customer has a complaint, ALWAYS say you are sorry. Even if you are not. Do not blame them or make excuses. Apologize and tell them that you will find a way to solve the problem. If there is nothing you can do for them about their particular concern, find somebody who can.
One of the most overlooked pieces of waiter etiquette is the removal of dishes after the meal. Many waiters make it seem as though there is a plate shortage in the kitchen. Before a patron has the chance to swallow their last bit of food, the waiter is appearing asking if he may take away her dishes. This is rude and very off-putting. If customers want their plates removed, they will set them to the side or ask you to come get them.
One more note on clearing away the dishes. Under no circumstances should you remove one person's plate if another person at the table is still eating. It is stunning how many waiters do this. For one thing, it can make the person still eating feel uncomfortable and that he or she should stop. It is like you are setting the pace for their meal. That is not your job.
Some other basics in don'ts are: don't shout. Don't point at a customer. Never touch a customer or any of their personal belongings. No gum chewing, fidgeting with your hair, arguing with other waiters within earshot of people eating and no cigarette smoking in sight of them. Do not yawn or act bored or tell the customers that you can't wait until 9pm when you can go home. They don't need to feel as though waiting on them is unpleasant for you. And seriously, don't solicit tips or count them in front of the guests.
As for the dos: do be well groomed at all times. Dress nicely and make sure your shirt is tucked in and tie is straight. Always be polite and give the guests a smile. Thank them for dining at your establishment and say it so that it seems like you mean it. Even if you don't. - 30543
For starters, don't hang around the guests while they are eating. Shortly after their food has been served, you should pop over and make sure they are satisfied with everything. Then leave them alone to enjoy their meals. Scan the room frequently to see if any of your patrons are trying to get your attention.
Also, don't pressure them into making a decision about ordering if they are not ready. If they say that they need a few minutes, actually give them a few minutes before you come back. Don't come back in 1 minute with pen in hand. If they are not sure what they want, don't roll your eyes or otherwise express annoyance. It really shouldn't matter to you how long it takes them to order anyway.
If the restaurant customer has a complaint, ALWAYS say you are sorry. Even if you are not. Do not blame them or make excuses. Apologize and tell them that you will find a way to solve the problem. If there is nothing you can do for them about their particular concern, find somebody who can.
One of the most overlooked pieces of waiter etiquette is the removal of dishes after the meal. Many waiters make it seem as though there is a plate shortage in the kitchen. Before a patron has the chance to swallow their last bit of food, the waiter is appearing asking if he may take away her dishes. This is rude and very off-putting. If customers want their plates removed, they will set them to the side or ask you to come get them.
One more note on clearing away the dishes. Under no circumstances should you remove one person's plate if another person at the table is still eating. It is stunning how many waiters do this. For one thing, it can make the person still eating feel uncomfortable and that he or she should stop. It is like you are setting the pace for their meal. That is not your job.
Some other basics in don'ts are: don't shout. Don't point at a customer. Never touch a customer or any of their personal belongings. No gum chewing, fidgeting with your hair, arguing with other waiters within earshot of people eating and no cigarette smoking in sight of them. Do not yawn or act bored or tell the customers that you can't wait until 9pm when you can go home. They don't need to feel as though waiting on them is unpleasant for you. And seriously, don't solicit tips or count them in front of the guests.
As for the dos: do be well groomed at all times. Dress nicely and make sure your shirt is tucked in and tie is straight. Always be polite and give the guests a smile. Thank them for dining at your establishment and say it so that it seems like you mean it. Even if you don't. - 30543
About the Author:
In the city known for its popular vacation destinations for Vancouver travel, have an enjoyable dining experience at the many accessible restaurants. Also, when purchasing Vancouver real estate, you may want to consider an area with lots of options for delicious foods.
