Welcome back to Tip$ for Dining Out Part III: the do's and don'ts for restaurant diners. Let's get right to it.
9. Complaints. Mistakes happen. But before you rip off your server's head, assess your own problem. You didn't want tomatoes, but your burger has them? Wouldn't it be easier to pull them off yourself rather than making a big scene? You were brought the wrong side order? Kindly ask for the correct one. Is it taking too long to get your margarita? Take a look at the bar. Is the restaurant so busy that people are standing two deep? I'll eagerly admit no server is perfect, but many times problems aren't solely on the person who spends the most time at your table. However, it is usually up to the server to resolve the problem, so nicely tell them what you need. If the problem is not resolved to your satisfaction, ask to speak to a manager. And whatever you do, do not wait until the end of the meal to say you didn't really care for your steak because it was tough. When the server looks down and sees that you've cleaned your plate, it's a little too late for them to be able to do anything about the situation.
10. Acknowledge a job well done. Often the experience was great, but this seems to be when customers really clam up. Take a minute to call a manager over and tell them what made the visit special. Complete the surveys now printed on many receipts. These usually only take five minutes to do. If you really have some time on your hands, write a letter to the corporate office. The only time most restaurant employees get feedback is when something went wrong. And, more and more restaurants are resorting to filling scheduling needs based on the number of positive comments vs. negative ones.
11. Be conscientious of your surroundings. Is the restaurant super busy? Do they appear short staffed? (Hey, I realize this one isn't your fault, but rest assured, it sure isn't the fault of the server that showed up either). Is there a problem at a nearby table? These special circumstances really are rare, and a guests' disrespectful attitude, impatience, and flippant remarks only serve to exacerbate the situation. In short, recognize there are other patrons in the establishment.
12. Be aware of closing times. Look, I know it says the place is open until 10PM, but walking in at 9:45PM is the equivalent of you getting ready to leave your job for the day only to have the boss drop something on your desk as you're heading out the door. These people are tired and ready to go home. (Not to mention they usually have an hour of cleaning to do after everyone has left). A good rule of thumb is to have your entire party in the restaurant and seated thirty minutes prior to closing. Also, please realize that at such a late hour, restaurants are apt to be out of some items. (Special note to restaurant employees on this one: #12 is a huge "no-no" for fellow employees. Your co-workers are ready to go home too and you of all people know this)!
13. Please do not order coffee at 9:50PM or hot tea when it's 100 degrees outside. The chances that either are ready in these situations are slim to none. (Actually, most servers would prefer you never order hot tea, but I digress and am just being picky now)!
14. "No, you CANNOT get a TO*GO cup for your Long Island Tea." This is not New Orleans and Katrina was four years ago. By now you should be familiar with state beverage control laws.
15. Squatters. Squatters are people who sit and talk for an extended period of time after they've finished their drinks/meals. Personally, I don't care how long guests stay after they're finished as long as they accommodate me for occupying my table. Servers make money by turning tables, (i.e., getting guests in and out). When guests sit and talk for two hours, this is money waiters are losing by not being able to seat new guests. Standard fair is to tip an extra $5-$6 for each additional hour you sit at the table.
Well, we're almost done. Thanks again to those of you who have left comments. I love the feedback! Until next time...keep it real!
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