Compared to most people in my field, I am still fresh meat in the food service industry. Even with almost 8 years under my belt, my experiences with horrendous customers pale in comparison to many of you out there. However, whether you're just starting out or you've been fully seasoned in the restaurant business, I believe our insight is unanimous when it comes to dining etiquette. There are just some things you don't do at a restaurant.
1. Please keep the PDA to a minimum.
I understand that you may be celebrating an anniversary or maybe it's your first date, regardless of your status, we don't want to see you with a tongue halfway down your throat unless you ordered it off the menu.
2. If I am with another table, please wait patiently until I am finished with my presentation before attempting to get my attention.
Most of the time, we aren't intentionally ignoring you. It takes time to get a table's full attention and when we have it, it's usually something pretty important (telling specials, taking an order, checking to see if the food is correct). Please don't grab my arm while I'm in the middle of taking an order for a party of 6 to ask for your 4th consecutive bread basket.
3. If we mention a dish that you don't like, don't make faces or rude remarks.
Would you want someone to come to your job and tell you they think what your doing is unappealing? Probably not. If you think foie gras or catfish is gross, keep it to yourself or at least let us walk away before you comment.
4. Figure out payment BEFORE you go out to eat.
Nothing is more frustrating than having to split a check 6 ways when you all shared wine, appetizers and desserts. We're more than happy to do it as long as you tell us before you order so we can mentally tally each check during the meal. Also, if you want to pay for someone else's tab at your table, do it discreetly. It's uncomfortable to have people arguing and wrestling a checkbook away from one another in front of you.
5.NEVER.EVER.EVER tell your server you don't want to send an improperly cooked item back for fear of your food being spit in.
Frankly, it's just offensive. If you're that terrified that the kitchen would intentionally jeopordize your health, don't eat at that restaurant anymore. Restaurant workers are not cruel and insensitive ogres. We want you to have a good experience because that's how we get paid. The more we can do to make your experience enjoyable, the more likely it is you'll tip us and return to spend more money.
