I’ve never worked in a restaurant and therefore have no experience in that field, but I do know a lot about going to, and eating at, restaurants.
There are a few restaurants I frequent that, no matter how busy they are, always manage to attend to everyone in a timely manner. Diners are greeted, coffee is served, food is brought out, and the whole experience feels great.
Then, there are those places that are practically empty, and somehow it takes the server seemingly forever to just come over and hand you a menu, often with some excuse of why it took so long, accompanied by just a dash of attitude.
With that in mind,I’d like to offer my thoughts and opinions:
1.) NOTICE THAT I CAME IN.
I don’t care how busy you are, but to walk in a place and feel invisible is the perfect invitation to walk back out. Just nod to me and let me know you see me. That buys a couple of minutes for you to officially greet me.
2.) TELL ME WHAT’S GOING ON.
Do I get a table? Is there a wait? Let me know why I am waiting. This simple bit of communication buys you a little more time.
3.) MENU and COFFEE
Just bring the menu with you as you seat me. Finally getting a seat, and then having to wait until you go get a menu is wasted time. Multi-task. And, if it’s breakfast time - get me that coffee right away… that buys you more time.
4.) BRING ALL THE FOOD AT THE SAME TIME
Okay, I don’t mean that you have to actually carry all the plates yourself at one time, but bring everyone’s food out at the same time.
It’s impolite for one to start eating when the other person hasn’t gotten their food. And if one waits till they do - their food gets cold. Just bring ALL the food out when it’s all ready.
And I’ve never bartended, either, but I have observed some that are on it and can make everyone feel welcome and served, while others act as if they are doing you a favor. Yes, I have some suggestions:
1.) LET ME KNOW YOU SEE ME.
I know you’re busy making drinks, but all I want to know is that you see me and that you will help me in turn.
2.) SEE ME, SMILE, and RECOGNIZE ME
If I’ve been in to your bar a few times, acknowledge that. Maybe even call me by name once I’ve said it a few times. That’s the kind of bar I want to hang out in. Acting like a snobby rock star might be okay for a few of your close bar buddies, but it’s bad business overall.
Finally…
GIVE ME MY CORRECT CHANGE!!!
I like my coins - every penny. I save them. Don’t round down when you give me my change, assuming that’s part of your tip. I will decide how much to tip you.
Restaurants spend a LOT of money in paid advertisements just to get people into their establishments, yet once the customer comes in… will they come back?