[Lucy Goose]

Originally Posted by MikeF-NH

I guess I don't think of it that way. I grew up and in restaraunt family (my father owned a restaraunt from the time I was 12 until I went to college at 18) so my view of service always seems to look deeper than just straigh minutes. For instance...if a party of 12 came in just before me, that would certainly change my expectations and I do look for that kind of thing if I am getting impatient.

In general, I don't see service from the kitchen as an issue but service from the wait staff. An attentive waiter/waitress will be coming by every 5 minutes to bring drinks, apps, salads, soups, ask if anything is needed and even update me if things are crazy in the kitchen.....heck may even warn me that a large party's order just went in so the wait may be a few more minutes than usual. THAT waiter gets a huge tip. On the other hand, a short staffed wait staff can't do this and I notice that also.

Of course the kitchen can screw up and over/under cook something or miss something and have to re-fire the order so that too comes into play.

To me it seems obvious where the screw up is happening and I try not to be too judgemental or set my expectations too high if things aren't perfect. It is rare that I am absolutely appalled with entree delivery times. Everyone must remember that you are not the only person in the establishment and every restaraunts goal is to get you to come back.

If you are in such a hurry that you are counting minutes, perhaps you should have gone to a take out place or fast food or not gone out or planned better. Point being, you are there to enjoy yourself not stopwatch the meal. Relax, enjoy the atmosphere and your company. Complement staff on good work or overcoming a tough situation and be understanding of "the little things" and you will enjoy your meal so much more.

Now if staff is completely unattentive or rude...talk to the manager...his/her goal is for you to come back AND to tell your friends of your wonderful experience. If they hear you are unhappy and do nothing to compensate for your displease...bring your business elsewhere.

Just my .02...plus tip.

I couldn't agree more. Why is everyone always in such a hurry. Take time to relax and enjoy the company of the folks you are with and being lucky enough to be "Up the lake"!

The Goose!