Food Notebook

Too many restaurant patrons ignore the staff, focusing instead on their cell phones, dining companions, papers or whatever – brusquely ordering their first cocktail or cup of coffee without ever saying “Hi.” This is a major error because to be noticed, you must notice those who will be delivering your service experience. It is amazing how a smile and some chatting on your part with the staff will dramatically improve the attention – and quality – you will receive during the meal.

This technique starts when you walk in the door and continues until you walk out the door at the end of your meal. This does not mean that throughout the meal you are noticing the staff, but at strategic points you give whoever is serving you a few moments of undivided attention.

Always give a cheery greeting with a smile when first approach by someone, whether it is the matre’d who seats you, the busboys who brings you a glass of water or your server. It is amazing how positively people will react when you greet them with a “Hello” and “How are you today?” It is fun seeing a server at a breakfast place light up when, in my worst Irish accent, I give a hearty “Top o’ the morning!” and “How are you this fine and lovely day?” From then on, my coffee cup is never empty.

Chat with your server or the bartender about the menu, what’s good today and what they like. If this is your first time at the restaurant, let the staff know that fact and ask for background information like what the restaurant is known for, who is the chef and so on. Ask them what are some of their favorite dishes and wines are and then provide feedback, good or bad, if you pick any of the dishes they like.

At the end of the meal say “Thank you” to your server, busboy, bartender and others. If you happen to be sitting at a counter overlooking the kitchen, compliment the nearest chef or ask the server to pass on your compliments if the meal was tasty. Shake hands as you leave if it can be done in an appropriate manner.

In the end, it is important to remember that the staff members of a restaurant are people too. A little common courtesy goes a long way to ensuring your dining experience – this one and, more importantly, the next one – is top shelf.
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The Dining with Notebook Manifesto and Principles are a way for every restaurant diner to get the best restaurant experience.