As an ex-waitress, the holidays are the WORST. Sure, some people understand that we may be working a double shift (which equals a 30 minutes break for a 12 hour day. . .and most of the time that break is spent still waiting tables if slammed). Here are some things that grind server's gears:
1. Cutting Off Our Introduction
"Hi my name is--"
"Water, no ice, two slices of lemon finely cut by the hands of God and placed delicately on the edge of the glass. Thanks"
"Oh. . .Kay"
2. People Who Seat Themselves
Great, you sat at the dirty table we haven't had a chance to clean yet. Your entitlement must be so heavy you can't stand for long periods of time.
3. People Who Purposefully Speak Slower When Talking To You
Being a server does not mean I lack brain skills. Thanks though.
4. People Who Complain To Your Manager But Not You
If I stop at your table three times and ask if everything is alright, don't tell my manager otherwise when she stops by later.
5. Impatient People
If you have a meeting in 15 minutes, don't come into a full restaurant expecting to get served in five minutes. You will wait like everyone else (and I will make sure you wait just a bit longer).
6. People Who Claim The Coffee Isn't Fresh Even Though You JUST BREWED IT
(Looking at you old ladies who need the coffee microwaved 3 extra minutes so that our flesh burns off the minute we touch the glass)
7. People Who Overreact
Oh, I'm sorry you accidentally got regular fries instead of waffle fries let me fix th--
8. People Who Give You The Stink Eye
I made a mistake, I'm human. We are busy. That doesn't justify an attitude or no tip (especially if we are packed and you see that we are slammed.)
9. People Who Tip With Used Movie Tickets Or Church Cards
(Looking at you teens and older folks). This isn't a tip, and you're awful for thinking it is.
So remember to be kind to your servers these holidays. They work very long hours and try to genuinely ensure you have the best service possible. Understand they are human and are capable of mistakes. Be patient.
