How to Get Quicker Service at a Restaurant

One of the biggest complaints guests have when eating out is the speed of service. How many times have you been in a restaurant hungry and ready to order, and waiting for your server to come to your table and take your order? Maybe you've been ready to go, but you don't have your check yet. How about when you do have your check and you're ready to pay, but your server hasn't taken payment yet? These things can be very frustrating, especially if you're trying to make that movie or get home to the kids. Here's a few tips that you, as the guest, can use to time your speed of service.

One of the hardest things for a server to do is read their guests. Some want to be "in and out", while others would rather take their time sipping on a few cocktails while enjoying conversation. A server doesn't want their guest to feel rushed. Continuously approaching the table asking the guests if they're ready to order, asking if they are finished eating, or dropping the check quickly are all things that can make the guest feel as though the server is trying to hurry them out. Sometimes though, this is not the case and the server is trying to make sure you are not left waiting for them.

Ready to order? Typically, after you've placed your drink order and the server brings them to you, he or she will ask if you are ready to order. You may need a few more minutes. It can be difficult for a server to determine exactly how many more minutes you need. They do this by peeking over at your table and looking for the signs. If you are still looking down at your menu, chances are they are not going to come over and bother you. It helps to give the server a sign. The best sign is to stop reading the menu. Some people will have decided what they want, but like to read menu descriptions for other entrees. By continuing to read the menu, you are telling your server that you are still trying to decide. If you are in a hurry, I wouldn't suggest doing this. When you are ready, close your menu if it is not one of the single page menus. This will tell the server that you are, in fact, ready to order. If you are one of those people that like to point on the menu to the entrée you want to order, you can keep your hand in the middle of the menu and fold the cover over you. This way when the server comes over, all you have to do is open the page and there it is! Try to make eye contact with your server. Making eye contact, smiling and nodding is a surefire way to summon your server.

Thirsty? If you're ready for another round you may not get it right away if the server can't see that your glass is empty. You or your dining companion may be blocking the view. Place the glass near the edge of the table making it visible for a server to see when he or she peeks at her section.

Need some elbow room? Sometimes its hard for a server to tell if you're done with a plate. Want them taken out of your way? Place a napkin on your plate or place it at the end of the table. This will let your server know that you are finished eating.

Another hard thing for a server to determine is when you're ready to pay. Again, servers don't want to rush you or seem rude by asking for payment. Most restaurants have check presenters. These are the black books the check is placed in. It's OK if you're not ready to pay and want to sit a while chatting. But, if you want to settle up the tab and get out let your server know by leaving part of the credit card or cash showing at the top.

Have you ever had a server who every two minutes comes by the table and asks if you need anything? Most servers try to avoid interrupting your conversation, while still providing excellent service. A good way for them to do this is to walk by your table without actually saying anything. Don't be afraid to stop your server should they walk by should you need something.

Next time you're in a restaurant and you don't want to sit there waiting for things, try these tips. I'm sure you'll find them useful in getting what you want in a timely manner.