The Hidden Truths of Being a Server: What Every Diner Should Understand Before They Sit Down

Suddenly, your server is no longer a server. They’re a mathematician, mediator, and referee — trying to divide an already chaotic bill into neat parts that make no one upset.

Want to make their night easier? Decide beforehand. Have one person cover the bill and split it yourselves later, or let your server know early so they can set it up cleanly.

5. The Modifier Mayhem: Customization Gone Wild

We live in an age of customization. Want oat milk, light foam, half-caff? You got it. But sometimes, the modifications cross into madness.

“No onions, but extra mushrooms, gluten-free bun, sauce on the side, actually make it vegan — but still with cheese, if it’s dairy-free.”

It’s not that servers don’t want to help. They do. But when the changes are so extreme that even the kitchen can’t keep track, it slows down everything.

If you have allergies, speak up. If you have preferences, that’s okay too. Just be clear, kind, and reasonable — and always thank your server for accommodating you.

6. The Mobile Phone Zombies

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