What does a Server do?
Servers work in restaurants as the point person between their customers and the establishment. They take orders and answer questions about menu items or food and prices. They also describe any specials and prepare non-kitchen food items including drinks, desserts, and salads.
Servers greet customers and seat them. When taking orders, they help customers with any dietary concerns or issues, including food allergies. They also ensure they have noted the customer’s preferred method of cooking some items like steak or eggs. Servers work alongside kitchen staff to execute customer orders, and they handle any customer issues that may arise, including incorrectly prepared food or dissatisfaction with a meal. Servers ensure customers have a satisfying dining experience, and they follow-up by removing any dirty or used items from their tables while the customers are still there. Servers also verify a bill or check has the correct items and amount due at the end of the transaction, and collect payments from the customers. They clean the tables once the customers have departed, and refill condiments and stock service stations. While there is no formal education requirement for a server, some states require a food handler card.
- Perform all server duties for beverage and food service.
- Follow setup and breakdown guidelines.
- Provide guests with the best in service, courtesy and care.
- Ensure food is served in accordance with safety standards.
- Assist with any questions, and maintain table standards.
- Review meal tickets prior to placing prepared food on trays.
- Wait tables and take food orders to meet customer satisfaction.
- Complete designated closing duties and related sanitation requirements.
- Assist with running of drinks, food and concession items.
- Complete all side work assignments in between meal periods.
- Report all accidents and injuries in a timely manner.
- Ensure that menus are maintained and filed in accordance with established policies and procedures.
- Maintain a clean work area in the kitchen, serving area, and dining room.
- Report to work in a neat and clean uniform.
- Carry dishes and other tableware to kitchen for cleaning.
- Experience in hospitality and food service.
- Ability to learn and memorize restaurant software.
- Professionalism and attention to detail.
- A multitasker with a solid work ethic and a positive attitude.
- Able to solve problems as they arise with confidence and open communication between staff and guests.
- Solid understanding of all safety and health protocols, willingness to ensure site complies.
Server Salaries near United Kingdom
Average Base Pay
Server Career Path
Learn how to become a Server, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Server Insights
Kloby's Smokehouse“i made great money in tips customers are pretty nice and there is usually a steady flow”
Cracker Barrel“Thanksgiving is mandatory and so are most Holidays unless you have a really good reason.”
Wing Daddy's“It was decent money and you got to know some of the regulars who are pretty cool and tip well.”
Aruba Beach Cafe“I really enjoyed working here because everyone was so friendly and I was able to make great money.”
“everyone is nice and the French toast is the best to get and my favorite.”
Topgolf“Almost every person who worked here was a great person and fun to be around.”
True Food Kitchen“It was nice to work with professional and responsible people that cared for each and every guest.”
Benihana“I enjoy working here a lot and everyone is super nice and friendly to each other.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of servers
The typical day of a server involves ensuring customers at restaurants have a good experience by taking orders, preparing drinks, delivering food, and offering great customer service. During a shift a server will take care of multiple tables and must respond promptly to customer requests.
Serving can be an interesting and fun career. The best part about working as a server is that you can choose a variety of work environments, from bustling chain restaurants to fine-dining experiences, while always getting to connect with lots of people.
A UK server's average salary is £36,739 a year, with the possibility to make as much as £85,704 per year. Where you work and your hours have a lot to do with your full income. Your earnings can also vary daily or seasonally when accounting for tips.
As with any job, there are some difficult aspects. When thinking about becoming a server, keep in mind that servers spend long hours on their feet in environments that can be stressful. They have to manage unhappy customers and may be asked to work longer shifts during busy seasons. For this reason, servers must have excellent communication and time management skills.
