How can I be a memorable server in the restaurant where I work?

Question

...of course the obvious is dropping drinks in their lap or scalding hot food on the baby, but i'm talking about *good* memorable.

I was thinking that since I'm known as the art student among my coworkers, that I could not only write "Shrimp Scampi" on the guest's To-Go box but also draw a little cartoon shrimp next to the title: a cartoon chicken with the chicken salad, etc. I thought that was a cute idea and I know it would make at least a few people smile.

Any other ideas would be great. Thank you.

Only serious answers please.

Answer 1

i eat out all the time.........

my favorite place is a sushi bar.  it's the atmosphere.   the waitresses fill my three year olds miso bowl with noodles.  they know all our names and greet us that way.  the head chef always asks about the surf (we see him in the water, too).   eventhough we are regular, they don't hover or chat each time they come by.  it's nice especially when we are with other guests and are having a conversation.  it's the only place i overtip.  a few times we had bad service.  i hate bad service, but i didn't even care.  i felt sorry for them because it was busy.  once an order was never put in, i had a cold steak and couldn't get her attention for a set of chopsticks.  a few times my husband even finished his food before mine came.  

i never once got upset because these are the nicest people and i truely like them.  their attitudes are what brings me back at least once a week.

i've also been to restaurants with fabulous food but poor waitstaff.  not necessarily rude, but i've been made to feel like i'm bothering some.  i go out to eat to enjoy myself and my company, not 'cause i'm hungry.  it's social.  if i'm just hungry, i'll make a sandwich.  i don't return to unfriendly places and make sure my friends know why.

Answer 2

Smile and be enthusiastic about about your job...  I was at a drive through yesterday and the girl who served me had the sweetest smile and spoke with so much enthusiasm, it made my day.  I actually wanted to drive around and ask to talk to the manager so I could recommend her for a raise or something

Answer 3

That is cute!

  I think you should be polite and friendly, not overly chatty, but just nice. Make sure you get everything on time and apoligize if their food is late.

   yeah, be nice and polite and never act like you're annoyed with the cutomer. I guarentee that people will remember and love you!

  best of luck,

   -B!

Answer 4

i would also wirte the date, i started and my customers really liked it.

Answer 5

My biggest problem as a waitress and a bartende, of which I was for 8 years, was that I was way too nice.  Too sugary, too smiley, too cutesy.  For all those years i thought I was doing a good thing.  But only a small percentage of people actually like that.  Most people find it annoying.  The best servers are the ones who skip the sugar, skip the *** kissing, and focus on good service.  I am not saying be rude....I am saying be polite,  don't be too chatty, and just be professional.  People will remember you and you will make better tips.

Answer 6

stand out.

do a good job.

remember the people you serve.

get a lip ring.

the drawing thing might work for people with kids, parents aren't as likely to go out to eat often.

Answer 7

I actually own a restaurant and the best servers that I have focus solely on the customer.  Be attentive and always available.  When you are talking with them make them feel as if they are the only people in the building.  Don't let them see you playing around with coworkers or sitting around looking bored.  Always keep your hands busy.  They will see you as a hard worker that deserves a tip.  Also never let them hunt you down to give you your tip.  Stay close!