The Whatothave guide to eating out
This is a little guide that Matt and myself have put together as a guide for eating out from our experiences.
1) Sit at the bar
If you are at a restaurant that you plan to visit fairly often, this allows you the chance to build a relationship with the bar staff. Most restaurants have 2 or 3 bartenders that cover all the time that the place is open and anywhere from 3-20 wait staff. Each time you go to the restaurant, the chances of getting the same wait(er)(ress) is slim. The chances of dealing with the same person behind the bar are high. This allows you to get to know them, and more importantly get to know you. They will learn what you like, what you don’t like, and how to make you happy.
2) Tip well, you cheapskate
I tip a minimum of 20%. (Generally because I’m terrible at math and that’s easy to figure out). Remember, the federal minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.13 an hour. No, that isn’t a typo, in a 40 hour week, most wait staff make about $85 from their employer. They make the money they live off of from tips. Most of these people have a family to feed, so if you think the service is good let them know…show them the money. Waitstaff remember people who tip well. If you want good service at a restaurant you frequent, this is the best way to get it.
3) Ask about the specials
You ever have a job where you did the same 5 things over and over again all day? You remember how boring it was? Chef’s probably feel the same way about cooking the same entrees from their menu that changes infrequently at most places. The specials are usually ways for them to stretch their legs and try new things. Generally, I find that these dishes can be awesome surprises.
4) Have “Your Place”
Find a place you really like. Visit there at least once a week for a month or so. Introduce yourself to the owner/bartender/manager. Follow steps 1-3. By the end of the month, you have more than likely made this restaurant “Your Place”.
“Your Place” will cook you special meals. “Your Place” may comp you food or drink. “Your Place” likes you being there and takes care of you.
Next time you are out and about, keep these tips in mind, and you may find that they improve the service you get and make your visit more enjoyable.
–Sean