Eden asks: When dining out, what does a server have to do in order for you to give them a really good tip? On the flip side, what are some things that you dislike your server to do?
*I begin to answer in her comments, only to realize I'm too long winded & might as well make a post out of it!*
personally it's all so particular to each experience...
but I can surely note that a server with a fair amount of fun banter gets a better tip from me, someone who makes you smile... but doesn't over step their boundaries (ie. knows when to leave you alone)
if i never/barely see my server... I'll surely make note of it when deciding my tipping. nothing's worse than an server who drops off your salad, then disappears... without hearing you'll need more ranch!
getting an order wrong without lavish apologies is also a big let down... human err is common, in fact expected what with my weird tendancies in ordering, but at least show that you didn't intend to simply rip me off in the process... or simply hoped i wouldn't notice. If you can make me feel like you sincerely want to make it better, I'll be sure to remember it when tipping.
rolling eyes, ignoring waves and/or polite calls, and other such behavior that only makes me feel like I'm interupting your day, get you nowhere... where as smiles, personalized greetings (especially at places that I might frequent), and hearty helpfulness go a long way.
don't be afraid to admit that you don't know... I'd rather have you go back to the kitchen to check on ingredients, than to have you later hand me something with an item I'm allergic to inside! If you're new, let me know as well... I'll understand the awkwardness, and perhaps even cut you some more slack than I might usually...
just my thoughts on the subject!
