10 Secret Server Pet Peeves That Will Change How You Dine Out

You very rarely will ever hear your waiter or waitress complain out loud. One big factor is that they're working for tips. I know this because I have been there and done that for years and years.

Did you know that Tips stands for To Insure Prompt Service? So, they are doing just that. Yet if you've ever worked in a restaurant, you know there's a wide range of things to complain about. It is hard work and dealing lots of different people all day long can be very exhausting on your mind, body and soul.

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A new survey has asked servers to name the top things they secretly hate but don't express out loud to customers.

1.  They hate when you walk in and sit at a table that has yet to been cleared.  If the table has got dirty dishes on it, it's clearly not ready. Do not sit down. Let them clear it and clean it before you pop a squat.

2.  When people insist on sitting outside, only to turn around and complain about the temperature, or the massive amount of noise, or all the dang bugs. You are outside. What do you expect?

3.  When people grab their food or drink off of the tray they're holding.  Sure, it seems like they trying to help.  They are not helping. But it can throw off the whole balance and cause a spill.

4.  Parents who let their kids throw stuff everywhere and run around.  If your kids leave a big mess behind, at least match it with a big tip.

5.  When people don't say "please" or "thank you."  Some people just say "I'll have this" or "I want that." This one drives me bonkers! Always use manners. Always.

6.  Snapping or whistling to get their attention.  A wave is fine.  If they don't see you at first, give them a minute.  You're probably not their only table. A whistle is a fast track to them not coming back.

7.  Acting like a regular when you're not really a regular.  Don't expect special treatment if you only come in twice a year.  Once a week?  You're a regular.  Once a month?  Maybe.

8.  Complaining about prices.  The servers have zero control over that. Zero.

9.  This one use to make me almost cry all the time. When they come in 15 minutes before, they close.  Yes, everyone in the kitchen is very upset too. Very.

10.  When they eat everything on their plate, and then say, "I hated it."  They'll give you the laugh you want.  They've just heard it a million times.

Be kind to your servers, waiters, hostess, cooks, and all staff in every single establishment you go to. They are working their tail feathers off.