Have you ever been out to eat and received a glare from your waiter? It's possibly the seventh time they've brought you extra ketchup or more napkins. You may have sent back your food because it looked a little funny to you.
If you've noticed your waiter give you that look, chances are you said one of these phrases that made your server want to spit in your food.
1. "We are all on separate tickets."
Individual tickets aren’t bad. If there’s more than 10 of you, though, it’s going to take a lot of time and effort on the waiter’s part. This means a lot of math and careful separation on the computer. You’ve now given your server a massive migraine.
2. "I wanted half and half tea... there is too much sweet tea" or "there is too much unsweetened tea."
Servers are not mind-readers. We cannot figure out the exact percentage you want of unsweetened and sweet tea. If you’re going to be that picky, would you like to come to the kitchen and make your own drink?
3. "There are actually a few more joining us."
Let’s be honest here. A few more is never a few. This means more tables will be needed or the party will have to move to a new table completely. Now everything is thrown off balance.
4. "So which is the least expensive?"
Did you really just ask this? It’s understandable to be conscious of prices, but if you’re that concerned maybe this isn’t the place for you to eat. Also, this indicates to your server that you will most likely tip poorly or not at all.
5. "I think you misunderstood me."
If an entrée comes out wrong, simply explain to your server that it is wrong. If a drink doesn’t taste good, just tell your waiter nicely. There’s no need for statements that are going to cause tension. Also, this implies you think your waiter isn’t intelligent. If you think that, keep that thought to yourself.
6. "So, is this what you do for a living?"
Yes, many people wait tables for a living. This is a career for many who rely on their tips to provide for themselves and their families. It is none of your business to ask if this is what your waiter does for a living.
7. *Folds arms* "I want to speak with your manager."
You have now sent your server into cardiac arrest with this statement. Your waiter’s life is flashing before her eyes.
8. "I think the portions were bigger last time."
No, the portions have not changed. Maybe you’re just really hungry and wanting more food?
9. Rolls eyes and mumbles, "Well, what do you have here?"
If you’re not satisfied with the menu, you can leave and go somewhere else. That is OK.
10. "Can you turn the air off?"
It may seem cold in here to you, but to us, it is burning up. So, no. We can't.
11. Looks at the check and says, "This can't be right."
If you think there’s something wrong with the check, calmly explain to your server your concerns. Jumping to the conclusion that your server is out to get you and is overcharging you on purpose will get you nowhere.
12. "Is this your first day?"
This is just offensive. People have off days where they mess up occasionally. Everyone is human and messes up. Have a little patience with your waiter.
13. "This needs to be taken off our ticket."
Servers make MISTAKES. Sometimes things get added to a bill on accident. Blowing up at your waiter will not help the matter.
14. "We don't really like this table."
What is wrong with the table? You’re in a restaurant and not in a home. Not every chair is comfortable, and not every table has a window view.
15. "We aren't picky."
Only picky people say this. It’s OK to request things when you’re in a restaurant. Just remember your server is NOT a servant.
16. "I don't want a lot of ice. Just a little ice."
Make up your mind here. Do you want ice or no ice?
17. "We are kind of in a hurry tonight."
Waiters can do their best to make sure your food comes out quickly. Your server does have other tables to wait on, though. Each table has needs. It is not always your server’s fault when the food does not come out on time.
