Sunday, July 24, 2011

with a smile

I eat out a lot.  I am talking a minimum of three times per week.  Now I know people  who eat out every day of the week, but with my work schedule that is just not possible.

being a person who spends so much time in restaurants I have come to appreciate good service as much as good food.  I also tip accordingly and find that my gold standard is the 20% tip.  However,there are times when the service does not quite measure up to what I am expecting.  here is what i look for in service:

1) establish a friendly attitude from the get go. Say hi and if you tell me your name that is also cool.

2) Drink orders off the bat.  I want to get my drink on the table ASAP.

3) extra napkins are a big plus.  I am not eating at foo foo restaurants so the extra napkins are very much appreciated.

4) Take the order, write it down and read it back to me.  I order lots of stuff on the side and change up things from the menu and to get it right is a big thing.

5) When you bring the food ask if there is anything else I need.  Many times I need a condiment and the eaitress takes off so fast I am left waiting for her to return.

6)  Check in again after the food has arrived. A simple question like, "how is everything?" helps to resolve any issues.

7) Keep the drinks flowing.  There is nothing worse than seeing an empty glass on the table.  If I am waiting an extended period of time for a drink it may kill my buzz.

8) If the place is jumping or if there is a screw up in the kitchen - let me know.  I understand things get busy and if you keep me informed I am happy to wait patiently.

9) Ask before you bring the check.  or if you bring it ask one last time if I want another drink, etc..  If feels like I am being rushed out the door when the check is dropped off at the same time the dinner arrives.

10) If you mess up the order - make it right. I understand things happen but to make no attempt to correct it is a huge no no.

99% of the time service is perfect but every now and then things go horribly bad. 

No comments:

Post a Comment