Things that irritate restaurant workers

Now that I've given you some advice on the work in the restaurant business, let's move on to something more fun.

Things that irritate servers and bartenders. This is generally for amusement for workers in the business, but also for the general public. Read and try not to do any of these things when dining out!

1. If we do not open until 11 a.m., there is no need to be standing outside waiting at 10:30. The doors will not magically open.
2. If a hostess tries to seat you somewhere, it is because that is where is most convenient for a server. SIT THERE! The food is going to taste just as good in that booth as the one you'd "prefer" to sit in across the room.
3. Just because it feels like you have been waiting for an hour, does not mean you have. Do not harrass the hostesses, it does prevent them from getting you a seat!
4. Do not interrupt a server/bartender when they are saying hello. This is their job. It is really rude!
5. If you do not know what you want to eat yet, do not make the server stand there for 20 minutes while you decide. They have other tables to attend to.
6. When someone asks you, "do you need anything else," it is usually because they are going back into the kitchen. Please do not wait until they walk by you again. Tell them right away!
7. If you need a drink refill or know you are going to, just ask for it!
8. The server/bartender did not cook the food. If a steak comes out the wrong temperature, or the chicken is not done enough, etc., IT IS NOT THEIR FAULT! Try to be nice.
9. Do not take up a table for 3 hours, unless you plan on tipping accordingly. Sitting there prevents the server from turning over the table, which means they make less money. If you want to chat for three hours, the restaurant is not the best place to do it.
10. The respected amount to tip HAS increased in the last twenty years. Really. Acceptable is about 18%, whereas 20% is perfect. Take care of your servers and bartenders, they took care of you while dining out!