Picture this: You’re at your favorite restaurant, the aroma of delicious food wafting through the air, and the excitement of ordering your meal brings a little thrill. But have you ever stopped to think about what your server is experiencing behind the scenes? Believe it or not, there are some pretty common habits that diners have that make servers cringe. So, let’s dish out the dirt on these six restaurant habits that your server secretly hates — and yes, you might be guilty of a couple!
1. Ordering Modifications Galore
We get it; you want your meal just right! But when every other word is a modification, it can be a bit overwhelming for servers trying to keep track. “No onions, extra sauce, substitute the fries for a salad, and can I have that on a separate plate?” It’s like giving a chef a crossword puzzle instead of a recipe! While it’s totally okay to customize your meal, keeping it simple can help your server keep their sanity intact and your order correct.
2. Asking for Extra Everything
We’ve all been there: you’re at a restaurant, and the bread basket is just too irresistible. But when requests for extra butter, extra napkins, and extra everything start piling up, servers might start feeling like they’ve entered a game of ‘how much can I carry?’ It’s not that they don’t want to accommodate you; it’s just that lugging around a mountain of extras can turn a busy night into a juggling act. A friendly tip? If you really need a lot of something, think about asking for it at the end of your meal.
3. Not Staying Off Your Phone
Let’s face it: we’re all a little too attached to our phones these days. But if you’re glued to your screen while ordering, you might be making your server’s job a bit trickier. They’re trying to read your body language, gauge your mood, and pick up on any hints about your preferences while you’re busy scrolling through Instagram. A little eye contact and a genuine smile can go a long way in making the dining experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.
4. The “Let Me Speak to the Manager” Move
We’ve all heard the tales of the infamous “Karen” who demands to speak to the manager over the smallest of grievances. While it’s definitely okay to voice your concerns, coming in hot can send shivers down a server’s spine. Instead of jumping straight to the manager, try discussing your issue with your server first. They’re usually your best ally in resolving any hiccup, and you just might find that they’re more than happy to help you out without bringing in the big guns.
5. Dining and Dashing (Please, Don’t!)
This one’s a no-brainer, but it still deserves a shoutout. Nothing makes a server’s heart drop faster than realizing a customer has dashed without paying. It’s a serious bummer and affects not just the server, but the whole restaurant. If you’re ever in a situation where you feel uncomfortable with your bill, just communicate! Most servers would rather work something out than see you run for the door.
6. Ignoring the Specials
Ah, the specials of the day! They’re carefully curated by chefs who are eager to showcase their creativity, but often they get overlooked. When you sit down and instantly ask for the usual, it’s like ignoring a surprise party. Servers love it when customers are adventurous and open to trying something new. Plus, those specials often come with a little backstory that makes dining more personal. So, don’t shy away — ask about them, and you might just discover your new favorite dish!
Wrapping It Up
Next time you find yourself in a restaurant, you’ll likely be a little more aware of the habits that can make your server’s job a bit trickier. Remember, they’re there to make your dining experience enjoyable, and a little understanding goes a long way. So, let’s keep it simple, stay off our phones, and maybe leave the manager where they are. After all, we’re all just trying to enjoy a tasty meal and a good time!
Next time you’re out, why not take a moment to smile at your server, maybe even throw in a compliment? They might just surprise you with a little extra love in your meal. Happy dining!