From a Waitress' Perspective
Last summer, I worked six weeks as a waitress at an outdoor restaurant.
The atmosphere exuded chill beach vibes–mainly a bar and partially a pool club for people who docked their boats at the marina. In my short time there, I quickly recognized there were consistent types of customers I was likely to serve at least once every shift.
1. Precision Police
Rating:. 3.8/10
It is their mission to nitpick every aspect during their night out. These customers have no problem complaining about the type of ice cubes being incorrect and sending a drink back solely for that reason. While corrections are appreciated, and customers should enjoy their experience, the precision police always found the tiniest, most insignificant things to complain about.
Just like Goldie Locks, it was a process of trial and error to make things perfect. Either the drink had too many limes or not enough limes. Sometimes the volume of the music was too loud or too little. Or their food was not to the exact degree they prefer it to be.
Regardless, something always ends up being sent back to the kitchen.
2. The Chaotic Crew
Rating: 7.7/10
The “chaotic crew” are noticeable before they even sit at their table: typically a large, loud group of younger parents with kids. I always enjoyed serving these customers and wanted to ensure I snagged them before anyone else could.
Simply taking their order would be a task in and of itself. People talked over one another, and no one was ever seated all at once. Orders were changed five times over. Someone once asked me for a bacon burger… without bacon?
While they were a little crazy, unorganized, and loud, they never failed to make me laugh. And the nice tip was an added bonus.
3. John Mulaneys
Rating: 11/10
Overly polite customers made working 1000x easier. If you’ve ever watched a John Mulaney comedy special, you would understand why they are categorized as such.
One time I spilled a beer everywhere and the guy apologized to ME! He proceeded to help me clean up, and overall went out of his way to reassure me that the spilled drink was no issue at all (whereas if this happened with ‘precision police’ customers, they’d be demanding a full refund).
Usually, it’s a couple just out for a good time; they understand the struggles of working in a stressful environment. Their patience and good manners are extremely appreciated, and of course they leave a generous tip.