I started a thread a long while ago saying I was thinking about being a waiter. Well, I got a job at Texas Roadhouse at the end of January as a Host/Food Runner and I'm in training to become a server. Anyway, in the opinion of ya'll (sorry, TX Roadhouse habit) what makes a good waiter/waitress?
little things.. it's nice to have a new drink brought out before the other runs out without having to ask for a refill..
At the Roadhouse? A free refill on the cup of Chili. I swear, you guys must put crack in that stuff! I can't get enough of it! ...and now, back to your regular programming. Bringing out the appetizers out quickly...not with the main course.
Get the order right! If it's complicated write it down, nothing worse than waiting a long time and then the order is messed up because it wasn't written down and they forgot something you said.
Yeah, I know what you mean Falcons Talon. One of the waiter's I was running food with sent out the guy's chili during the salad's like he asked, but the kitchen also made another bowl for him during his meal. Since he wasn't supposed to have the 2nd one, I got to go and eat it. Nothing like being paid to eat chili!
Bring the check when I ask for it, instead of cleaning of the table. Bus the table on your time, not mine. Alos, if you are clearing appetizers and delivering entrees, deliver the entrees first to empty the tray, THEN clear the appetizer plates. Nobody wants the rest of the tables dirty plates next to their dinner. By the way before I get flamed, I waited tables for years, I know how hard it is.
A good waiter would have given the customer the chili. j/k I usually order a Cowboy cut of sirloin medium, cup of chili, homestyle mashed potato/white gravy, and an extra bowl of chili... DAMN!!! My mouth is watering!
Rule #1. Keep the drinks coming. I love the Roadhouse. It's probably my favorite chain restaurant. The bread, mash potato, Steak and Ribs... mmmh.
Dead on. I don't want to be your best friend. But I'd like your attention when i need another drink, would like to order, or it's time for the check. Good luck.
A good waiter is a hot chick who pays more attention to me than the other customers. Seriously, a good waiter keeps the drinks filled (although with iced tea, you should ask before refilling - some people actually like slightly diluted tea), get the appetizer to the table at least 10 minutes before the meal arrives (more if the meal takes more than 20 minutes to prepare), checks up to make sure the food is OK and waits until the customer say "I think we're done" before pulling out the check.
I usually tip extra if the waiter doesn't charge us for drinks (cokes, tea). I know it sounds stupid, but he did me a favor so I'll turn around and do him a favor. Hell...I was going to spend that money anyway...might as well give it to someone who's been a little creative with their waitering skills! Also...don't make me or anyone else ask for a refill. Also, if you're going to socialize with the other waitstaff (assuming you're just waiting for food to be prep'd)...don't let me or anyone else see it. It looks like I'm being ignored.
Amen. And don't give good service and then drop the ball by making the customer wait and wait for a check. I hate that.
I work at the one in Gainesville, Florida. I'd try to hook you up with some free stuff, but I assume that one is a little out of your way.
i have waited tables for a few years and it astounds me when people do it without writing down the order. i would be so turned around a confused if i was busy that i would run outside by the end of the night and go home.
