The Generosity and Integrity of Restaurant Staff: Tips on Gratitude and Appreciation

Internationally, waiters and bartenders are known for their meticulous and thoughtful service. They often go above and beyond to ensure their patrons have a pleasant dining experience. But have you ever considered the hard work behind their exceptional service?

Why Restaurant Staff Are Generous Tippers

Waiters and bartenders are some of the most understanding and generous tippers, and this is due to their firsthand experience of relying on tips for income. From my own observations, the servers and bartenders who are deeply aware of the challenges they face are also the ones who tip generously and show genuine kindness to each other. My daughter, for instance, also demonstrates this by cleaning up around them when her children make a mess.

Tipping Culture Amongst Colleagues

In the restaurant industry, tipping cultivation is a well-understood communal practice. Since they know the ins and outs, servers and bartenders are more lenient towards their colleagues when they're busy. However, they are also the most critical when they see coworkers using their phones in the corner instead of serving the customers.

For instance, when I was out with a table service person and a bar service person, they explained to me why wait staff are so generous with their tips. Firstly, they highlighted the fact that wait staff are earning a living, often supporting family or themselves. They choose this profession by their own volition and aren't just occasional laborers.

The Impact of Economic Hardship

Major economic events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have significantly impacted the restaurant industry. The decline in patronage has led to a reduction in the number of staff members. Many establishments have noticed a drop in service quality and are struggling to maintain their operations.

In the past two years, I've come across instances where the service is so poor that one wonders if there is a future for such establishments. There are places I have visited for years without the intention of returning due to their lack of service quality. Fast food joints and quick service restaurants are not immune to this decline; some are on the verge of closure.

Appreciation and Gratitude

Across the board, it is crucial to recognize and appreciate competent service. In many cases, the quality of the staff providing service is more important than the quality of the food or the cost. Good hygiene and timely delivery are what matter the most at this point. If a place is clean and the food arrives warm, it's considered a decent experience.

Shining Examples and Maintaining Quality

However, there are still establishments that continue to provide excellent service. When you find one, it's essential to support them. These individuals are the backbone of the restaurant industry, and they deserve recognition and support.

Here's some advice: If you believe a restaurant or its staff deserves your appreciation, let them know. Mentioning your gratitude to a manager can make a significant difference. A well-deserved tip, especially when service is excellent, is understandable and much appreciated.

So, tonight, remember to tip the staff well when they deserve it and express your appreciation whenever possible. Bon appétit!

Conclusion: If you find a good restaurant, support them. They deserve it. I might be stopping by there and appreciate your contribution to keeping them in business.