What Do Waiters/Waitresses Do After Their Customers Leave?

The role of waiters and waitresses extends beyond serving dishes and taking orders. Many tasks are completed after the final customer leaves to ensure the restaurant is ready for the next day. These tasks, often referred to as 'side work,' are essential for maintaining hygiene, organization, and the overall cleanliness of the establishment.

Post-Service Activities

After the last customer of the night has gone, waiters and waitresses begin their duties known as side work. This includes cleaning and preparing the service area for the next shift. They may clear and disinfect tables, sweep the floors, and check for any food bits that might be left on the seats or the floor. This ensures the restaurant is not only clean but also pleasant for the next guests.

Restocking and Inventory Management

Apart from cleaning, wait staff are often tasked with restocking condiments and replacing any used supplies. For example, condiments need to be refilled, silverware needs to be cleaned and rolled, and extra plates and cutlery must be ready for the next shift. In addition, they may need to count the cash tips collected during their shift. For some restaurants, the cash must be deposited at the end of the night, which involves keeping detailed records and ensuring accuracy.

Preparation for the Next Shift

Some restaurants require wait staff to set up for the next shift. This might mean unloading the dishwasher, arranging the bar area, or setting up supplies. Waiters and waitresses might also be required to tidy up their areas and prepare their stations for the following shift. This includes cleaning and organizing the kitchen and dining areas, ensuring that they are ready for the day's service.

Other Responsibilities

Depending on the specific restaurant, wait staff might have other unique tasks to complete. For instance, they may be responsible for lowering flags, sweeping the parking lot, or cleaning the restrooms. In some establishments, waiters and waitresses might be invited to after-hours gatherings to unwind and share stories from the night with their colleagues. These gatherings can vary widely and are often exclusive to the restaurant's staff.

Not all restaurants have the luxury of these after-hours gatherings. Some establishments require their staff to go home after serving the last customer, and any side work is completed solely by the staff themselves.

Conclusion

The responsibilities of waiters and waitresses do not end with the bell last chime. From cleaning the service area to setting up for the new shift, these tasks are vital in maintaining the operational efficiency and hygiene of any restaurant. Understanding these after-hours tasks can provide a deeper insight into the dedication and hard work that goes into the role of a waiter or waitress.