Don't Ask Your Waiter This Question
The Unspoken Rules of Asking Your Server Questions
When you go to a restaurant, your server is the person who helps make your experience enjoyable. They take your order, bring your food, and ensure that everything goes smoothly. However, not all questions are created equal when it comes to interacting with them. Some inquiries can be helpful, while others might come off as rude or unnecessary.
Avoid Asking About Their Personal Preferences
One question that should never be asked is, “What’s your favorite thing on the menu?” While it might seem like a friendly way to start a conversation, it can actually be counterproductive. Servers often have their own taste preferences, which may not align with what most customers would enjoy. For example, if a server grew up eating frozen dinners, their favorite dish might be something simple like chicken fingers. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best choice for someone else.
Instead of asking about their personal favorites, it’s better to ask what the most popular item on the menu is. This gives you a better idea of what other customers tend to enjoy, making it easier for you to choose something that suits your taste.
Don’t Ask If Something Is Good
Another common question that shouldn’t be asked is, “Is this dish good?” Servers aren’t always familiar with every item on the menu, especially the more expensive ones. They might not have had the chance to try them, so they can’t honestly say whether they’re good or not. Instead, ask how the dish is prepared. That way, you get specific information that can help you decide if you want to try it.
For instance, if you’re curious about steak tartare, don’t ask if it’s good. Instead, ask how it’s made. This allows the server to give you an accurate description, which you can then use to make your own decision.
Avoid Questions About Pricing and Wait Times
It’s perfectly fine to ask how much a dish costs, but avoid asking why something is priced the way it is. Servers typically don’t know the reasons behind the pricing. Similarly, don’t ask why your food is taking so long. Again, they might not have the answer. Instead, ask how long it will take before your food arrives.
If you’re waiting for a table, it’s okay to ask if you can be moved to another one. However, don’t ask when a crying baby next to you will be quiet. That’s not something your server can control or answer.
Never Ask What Else They Do for a Living
One question that should never be asked is, “What else do you do for a living?” This question can be seen as belittling, implying that waiting tables isn’t a legitimate job. It also assumes that servers are in this position because they have no other options. In reality, many servers work part-time to supplement their income, and some may even aspire to do something else in the future.
Asking this question can be uncomfortable for the server and might make them feel undervalued. Just like you wouldn’t ask a teacher what else they do, you shouldn’t ask a server the same question.
The One Question Every Server Will Answer
There’s one question that every server is happy to answer: “How are you today?” This simple inquiry shows that you care about their well-being and can lead to a more pleasant interaction. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference in how your meal experience turns out.
By avoiding certain questions and focusing on those that are respectful and helpful, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable dining experience for both you and your server.
