1. The wait isn't (usually) our fault
If your food is taking a while it is almost always not our fault. There are a lot of factors that go into food preparation and wait time. It is often the kitchen as well as other customer's orders that contribute to the wait.
2. Don't be rude to us
Always remember that we have access to your food. You have no idea what is happening behind those kitchen doors. Don't piss us off.
3. We only make around $3 an hour
Your 10% tip is not only a slap across the face but also hurts our pockets. Our hourly wage is around $3 an hour or less; we count on your tips to make a living. If you can't afford at least a 20% tip, don't go out to eat.
4. Go in order
Don't skip people and blurt your order out randomly. If you want us to write down exactly what you want, be clear and speak up. We can't guess and we can't hear over three other people talking at the same time.
5. If we say we don't have it, we don't have it
If we are all out of the lobster bisque then we are out of the lobster bisque. I am sorry if you have been thinking about it all day or if you have your mind set on it, but asking us over and over if we are sure we are all out won't make it appear.
6. Tell us before you order to split the bill
Don't be that table who has several people and neglect to tell us that you want to split the bill 10 ways after we come to your table with it. Tell us at the beginning so that we can imput it into the computer making it easier for everyone.
7. Don't whistle at us
If you need our attention, whistling is not the way to get it. We are not dogs.
8. Be patient
You aren't the only table in the building, we have other consumers and people to tend to. Dining out should be social, don't do so if you don't have a decent amount of time to eat.
9. We didn't cook the food
No but seriously, if you don't like something don't blame us; we didn't make it. Your distaste for a menu item should not result in a poor tip. Vocalize your lack of satisfaction and we will try to do something about it, but ultimately, it is not our fault.
10. We can work upwards of 12 hours without a break
We are tired. Being a server is not an easy job. Whether or not it may be "legal", servers can go 12 hours without even getting the chance to sit down or eat. Being a server is far from a glorious job but it certainly pays the bills. Keep this in mind before getting agitated at your server for forgetting a drink or your side of sour cream.
