As a parent dining out with kids, I strive to be mindful of restaurant staff and ensure that I tip generously. I recall a memorable experience from my own waitressing days when I approached a table to clear away dishes, only to find the patrons had neatly stacked everything for me. With cheerful smiles, they declared, “We’re waiters too!” and still gave me a generous tip. Simple acts of kindness can truly brighten a server’s day.
On the flip side, there are plenty of horror stories shared by waiters on platforms like Reddit, which were later highlighted by Foodbeast. Many of these tales revolve around the behavior of children in restaurants, and I hope you don’t see yourself reflected in any of them. Here are some of the most shocking:
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Leaving Chewing Gum on Plates
I can’t stand the sound of chewing gum, and I definitely wouldn’t allow my kids to leave their chewed gum on a restaurant plate. It’s baffling to think that adults might do this too—how disgusting! -
Asking Servers to Discipline Kids
One server recounted a mother who asked him to intervene when her kids were running up and down the aisles. Can you believe it? Another waiter shared a story about a child wandering into the kitchen and playing with cleaning supplies. The parents didn’t even realize the kid was missing and laughed when he returned. It’s astonishing how some people expect waiters to take on a parenting role. -
Changing Diapers at the Table
Eww! One server reported being left a dirty diaper instead of a tip, which is not only appalling but also incredibly disrespectful. A friend of mine, Sarah, once witnessed her sister-in-law change her baby’s messy diaper at a fancy restaurant table because she didn’t want to walk to the restroom. When confronted, she shrugged it off, saying, “If they have a problem, they can leave.” I’ve yet to meet anyone who enjoys a meal while surrounded by a diaper change! -
Indecisive Diners
I often remind myself not to keep the waiter waiting while I deliberate over the menu. It can feel like being interrupted by a child who has urgent news but then takes forever to spit it out. This is especially frustrating for servers who have many tables vying for their attention. -
Arriving Near Closing Time
I understand the struggle of finding a restaurant still open after a long day. However, showing up just minutes before closing can really put pressure on the entire staff. They too have lives and families waiting for them at home.
Dining out should be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. If you’re interested in learning more about parenting and family life, check out some resources on pregnancy and home insemination, like this article. For those considering at-home options, CryoBaby offers expert guidance.
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In summary, being a considerate diner makes a world of difference for restaurant staff. Remember to be mindful of your surroundings and the people serving you, and we’ll all have a better dining experience.