I have worked as a server in a restaurant for almost a year now. I honestly didn't think I would be working there this long, but I have to say, it's been quite a learning experience. I'd venture to say that everyone tends to think they could be a waiter or waitress because they've eaten out and seen SOME of the ins and outs of it, however, I don't think you can ever fully understand the job until you've done it yourself. Though it can sometimes be a fast way to make good money, more often than not, it's aggravating, frustrating, and a lot of hard work.
So, I've decided to post some diatribes on the things that bother me the most about restaurant customers. This first post will be dedicated to the Holy Grail of restaurant life -- the gratuity. Servers in Pennsylvania have a minimum required wage, paid by their employer, of $2.83 an hour. That's almost $5 an hour less than the standard minimum wage. Therefore, tips make up the vast majority of a server's income.
If you are pleased with your restaurant experience, especially the service by your waitress, you should always tip at least 18 to 20% of your check. I repeat -- 18 to 20%. Not 10, not 15. If you can't afford to add that customary gratuity onto your total, you really shouldn't go out to eat. You have to understand that you are the one paying the server's salary. When you give a server who has done a perfectly good job a tip of less than average, it basically amounts to a lot of hard work on their part for nothing. And trust me, we remember customers who don't tip well.
On the other hand, we also remember the people that seem to understand our plight and give a little extra. A good tip can go a long way in the restaurant world.
So, please -- I know the economy is in a slump, but if you can afford to eat out, you can afford to give a decent tip.
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