Published on March 27, 2026
Show up, speak up … and just be nice. Here is one anonymous server’s advice for a happy meal.
Hospitality is in a right state at the moment, what with the seemingly never-ending challenges of rising rents and rates, extortionate VAT, higher staffing, produce, and utility costs, and all those other well-documented socioeconomic pressures. So the last thing those of us who work in this beleaguered industry need right now is to be kicked in the proverbials people we rely on perhaps more than anyone. And, yes, I mean you, our lovely customers. So here is some advice on how to avoid infuriating your serving staff.
Turn up. Pre-Covid, most restaurants didn’t have the courage to take card details or charge for late cancellations and no-shows, but that’s all changed now. If you buy a ticket to the football or a concert, you’ll be out of pocket if you don’t show up. Why should restaurants be any different? Even if we have charged you a cancellation fee, remember that we’ve still lost out on drink sales and service charge.
Be on time. Punctuality matters. Arriving late not only disrupts the flow of service but can also affect other diners’ experiences and create chaos in the kitchen. If you know you’ll be late, a quick call can help us manage our seating and staff accordingly.
Don’t demand a table change. Once you’re seated, don’t assume you can swap tables at will. This is particularly true for busy restaurants where seating arrangements are carefully planned. If you have a special request, it’s best to discuss this when making your reservation or at the very beginning of your meal, not after you’ve already been served.
Respect the staff. Remember that servers are people too, juggling multiple responsibilities under pressure. A little kindness goes a long way. Treating the staff with respect and appreciation will make for a more pleasant experience for everyone involved.
Be patient. In an era of labor shortages and rising demand, service might take a little longer than normal. Complaining loudly or rudely won’t make the food come out faster. Instead, take a deep breath and show some understanding; the team is doing their best.
Order thoughtfully. When it’s time to order, be prepared. A little consideration can make the process smoother for both you and the server. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, it’s better to communicate these upfront rather than making last-minute changes during service.
Leave the phone alone. It’s tempting to snap a few photos or scroll through social media while waiting, but constantly checking your phone can be distracting for the staff. A quick photo is fine, but try to engage with your dining companions and the experience itself.
Tip appropriately. Gratuity is a key component of the service industry, and a good tip reflects your appreciation for the service. If you’ve received exceptional service, showing that with a generous tip can inspire your server to continue providing great experiences for future guests.
Share feedback constructively. If there’s something you weren’t happy about, wait until after the meal to provide feedback. Constructive criticism is invaluable, but it’s best delivered in a private conversation rather than at the table in front of everyone.
Lastly, express gratitude. A simple “thank you” goes a long way. Recognizing the effort that goes into your dining experience can make all the difference. After all, the hospitality industry thrives on connection, kindness, and shared enjoyment.
guidelines, diners can help create a more enjoyable and harmonious atmosphere for everyone involved.
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