7 Shocking Habits Boomers Have in Restaurants That Leave Servers Gasping—#3 Will Blow Your Mind!

Having spent years working shifts in restaurants, particularly during my college days, I've gained insight into the often unusual behaviors of diners, especially those from the baby boomer generation. While this isn't meant to age-bash, it's essential to recognize how certain habits can complicate an already challenging job for servers. Understanding these common behaviors can not only foster more considerate dining experiences but also lead to better interactions between diners and restaurant staff.

The Impact of Dining Habits on Servers

First on the list is the tendency to snap fingers or whistle for attention. Imagine a server trying to manage multiple tables, all while keeping track of orders and food deliveries. Then, suddenly, a sharp whistle or a finger snap pierces the air. It’s not just disruptive; it can feel dehumanizing. In one instance, a colleague of mine paused mid-stride when an older gentleman snapped at her as if she were a pet. “I have a name,” she later expressed to me, emphasizing that they are professionals, not mere instruments for service. A simple “excuse me” or making eye contact goes a long way in acknowledging their humanity.

Next, there's the issue of insisting on modifications to every single dish. Dietary restrictions are important, but some diners take it to the extreme by requesting extensive changes to menu items. As highlighted by research from the National Restaurant Association, these excessive modifications can bottleneck kitchen operations, delaying not only your meal but also affecting others waiting to be served. Restaurants curate their menus for specific flavor profiles; sometimes, trusting the chef can yield delightful surprises.

Another common behavior is treating the dining table as a personal conference room. It’s not uncommon for diners to linger for hours after their meal, spreading papers or continuing conversations while others wait. It's crucial to remember that servers rely on table turnover for their income. When customers monopolize a table during busy hours, it directly impacts the server's earnings and the restaurant's efficiency. Once the main course is cleared, it might be considerate to move to a café or home for further discussions, especially when there are guests waiting.

Perhaps one of the most frustrating behaviors for servers is when diners refuse to look up from their phones or conversations when ordering. Picture the scene: a server stands ready to take your order, but you’re deeply engrossed in a text or story. A flick of a finger to signal a moment is not only disrespectful but also impedes the flow of service. Taking a mere thirty seconds to make eye contact and place your order can transform the experience for both parties.

Another point of contention arises when diners complain about prices they haven't bothered to check. A notable incident saw a man seethe at a $22 salmon entrée without realizing the price was clearly stated on the menu. Servers have no control over pricing and placing blame on them only adds unnecessary stress to their already demanding roles. If prices are a concern, reviewing the menu beforehand is always advisable.

A logistical nightmare for servers is the last-minute request for separate checks after a meal. While modern point-of-sale systems can split checks, doing so after everything has been processed requires re-entering the entire transaction, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors. To ease this burden, simply informing the server at the meal’s start can save everyone a headache.

Lastly, there's the unfortunate practice of leaving religious tracts or notes instead of tips. Servers typically earn around $2.13 per hour before tips, a structure that leaves them vulnerable to financial strain. While sharing positive messages is commendable, it’s vital to pair them with appropriate gratuities to ensure servers can meet their basic needs.

All of these habits stem from a general lack of awareness about restaurant dynamics and the daily challenges servers face. A touch of mindfulness can remedy these behaviors. By making small adjustments, diners can enhance their experiences and be remembered as considerate guests, ultimately making the restaurant environment more pleasant for everyone involved.

So next time you're dining out, take a moment to reflect: Am I making someone's job easier or harder? This simple question could shift you from being a source of frustration to a valued customer, contributing to a better overall atmosphere for both diners and servers alike.