Tips for serving tables?

Question

I am a server and would like to know how other servers wait on tables. At my restaurant I am considered one of the higher level servers, but there is always room for improvement. How do you greet tables? What do you suggest? How do you deal with difficult customers? On average do you make more than 15%? I guess I could go on forever here but I think you get the idea. Like for example, I always address the customer Mr. or Mrs. so and so when they pay with a credit card. And I've found that older customers like it when you offer coffee after their meal..these are just some examples. Also, does anyone have any good stories? I guess this could be for both servers and customers...

Answer 1

The way you approach your tables should all depend on WHERE you work.  If you're a server at a laid-back restaurant and sling a ton of ribs & chicken all day, the more laid-back you are the better.  But if you're at a formal eating establishment, be prepared to know your products and act as professional as possible.

Best advice I could think of (may not be as useful if you're already in that higher-regarded position):

1.  Know everything about your menu and restaurant, so when  a customer asks "Does your french dressing have soy oil?" you'll know the answer.  Sounds insane, but knowing things like that will win a great tip on the spot.

2.  Unless you have a party, or a terrible memory, don't write down your orders.  It's a great way to impress your customers.

3.  NEVER show that you are in a rush.  No matter how many tables you have or that table's order you just realized you never put in.  Properly introduce yourself and DON'T talk while you're walking away.

4.  Try and check your food before it's sent out.  If you run your own food, even better.

5.  The SIMPLEST piece of advice: NEVER let a customer go thirsty.  It's easy to think "Well, he doesn't have any food, he can hold on for a minute will I put in this order."  Once that glass the empty, usually, they're counting the seconds.

Those are what I think are the most important... I could probably come up with more if I tried.  Try checking out www.BitterWaitress.com --- I think it's the ultimate website for servers.

Answer 2

always serve the woman first, including removal of meal, dishes, glasses ect...  also always keep fingers and thumbs off glass rims and serving area of plates and no gum chewing

Answer 3

I go up to a table and make complete eye cantact then i tell them the specials and ask if they would like an app while they decide!! be friendly and make jokes up sell and make them feel like a king or queen~

Answer 4

id say instead of saying mr. and mrs., say sir and maam. tats all i can think of...

hope this helps!!

p.s. greet with a smile:)

Answer 5

I am a customer, and I am easy to deal with.  The only thing that I really want is water and refills, so the drinks dont go empty when I am eating.  That is really it.