Eating out should be enjoyable for both guests and staff. But without proper etiquette, you may be quietly frustrating restaurant staff. Customers see many habits as harmless, yet they can be incredibly demeaning and rude to waiters. These behaviors can slow down service, add stress, and reduce fairness to staff and other guests. Without self-awareness, individuals often repeat these habits without realizing the impact. Here are seven everyday habits waiters secretly wish you would stop doing.
1. Snapping or Waving to Get Attention
You should never snap at anyone. It is incredibly disrespectful and demeaning. Waiters juggle many tables at a time and will get to you as soon as possible. A simple nod or eye contact is all it takes to get attention if needed. A polite hand raise works better as well. Even if you are impatient, you should always respect others.
2. Asking for “Something Special” Off the Menu
If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, that’s one thing. But picky eaters should do their best to pick restaurants that have menu items they are willing to eat as is. Custom requests throw kitchens off balance. Ultimately, it slows down service for everyone. You’ll also put waiters in a tricky situation since they may be stuck apologizing for delays. Menus exist for a reason. Keep your order simple.
3. Ignoring Reservation Times
Many restaurants have cancellation policies and won’t hold your reservation if you’re late. If you expect to arrive late, call the restaurant to see if they can accommodate you. Showing up late disrupts seating schedules, so don’t act like you’re still guaranteed a table. Be aware that waiters lose potential tips when tables can’t turn. Timeliness respects both staff and other guests.
4. Talking on Phones While Ordering
It’s very disrespectful to be on your phone at a restaurant, unless it’s a fast casual or fast food restaurant. When you’re ordering, being on your phone distracts from clear communication. It’s not fair to your waiter. If a mistake is made, it’s your fault. Instead, quick, focused interactions help everyone. Phones can wait until after. If it’s urgent, be polite and step outside.
5. Splitting Checks in Complicated Ways
Splitting checks can be a nightmare for wait staff. Dividing bills into too many parts creates delays for everyone. Yes, technology helps, but usually time still suffers. Your waiter will appreciate simple, even splits. If you know that you want to split the bill, let your waiter know before you order.
6. Overstaying After Paying
Lingering at a cleared table blocks new guests. Some restaurants now put time limits on tables because of this dining habit. Think about it. Waiters and the restaurant lose income when tables stay occupied too long. You may enjoy conversation but don’t overstay your welcome. Instead, moving to a lounge or bar helps.
7. Leaving Small Messes Behind
When dining out, treat it like your own home. Sugar packets, straw wrappers, and crumbs pile up quickly and leave a mess. It doesn’t take long to clean up a little after yourself. Tidying lightly shows extra consideration. Your server will thank you for the kind gesture.
The Takeaway on Restaurant Etiquette
Dining out is as much about respect as it is about good food or service. Servers notice the little habits customers often overlook, and those details can make or break the experience. Diners who adjust small behaviors create smoother meals, less stress, and a friendlier atmosphere for everyone. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way in building better interactions. The most memorable restaurant experiences always come from mutual respect between guests and staff.
Which of these everyday habits have you caught yourself doing, and do you think most diners realize how frustrating they are?
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