Is this pay system as a waiter common?

Question

I just got hired as a waiter and the tips are distirbuted evenly among the waiters/waitresses. Evidently, the pay system at this restaurant is 50% tips starting out then gradually increasing by 10% the more I learn the menu. When I learn the menu like the back of my hand, I get my share of the pooled tips.

Answer 1

I don't know if it's common, but It sounds like a good deal.

Answer 2

I've never heard of that, but my restaurants are independent. Maybe it's a corporate thing?

We don't pool tips because we feel it would be a demotivator. We have other means of getting people to learn the menu: we test them, and if they don't pass after a reasonable time, they lose their job.

Answer 3

Sadly, yes, that pay scale for waitresses/waiters is becoming more and more common.

Answer 4

Its getting common depending on where you are located. its good and its bad. You could make out good some nights but lose out on extra cash on other nights.......good luck.