Thursday, May 26, 2011

Sending Back Food

If you don't like what you're eating, send it back. Servers only want you to have a good experience. They're not going to get mad at you for not wanting to eat half-raw grouper. You don't have to apologize. You're not doing anything wrong. If you don't like what you're eating, politely send it back and let your server know what you would like them to do about it. Do you want the kitchen to cook it longer? Did they cook it too much and you'd like a fresh one cooked correctly? Did it taste horrible and you want something else? Would you like to see a menu so you can decide on a different item?

You're not doing anything wrong by expecting your meal to come out correctly and taste good. What's wrong is when you eat half of it and start complaining or you wait until it's done and then say that your fries were cold. Your server is only interested in helping you have a good time. Complaining for the sake of complaining doesn't accomplish anything. Your server is thinking, "Is she just trying to get something for free?"

If you ate your meal and have suggestions, complaints, or comments, fill out a comment card. That's what they're there for. The Powers That Be at the restaurant really are interested in your comments. Major decisions often rely heavily on customer feedback. If they get enough comment cards saying that the burgers are dry, they'll probably tweak the recipe.

When your food is not to your liking and you'd like it to be remedied, say something. Remember, servers simply want their guests to enjoy their meals and have a good experience. You're not doing anything wrong by sending something back. The restaurant did something wrong by presenting you with a flawed dish.