Serving Drama | Reading Reddit Stories

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Discussion on experiences in the service industry covering stories of unusual customers and behaviors, cultural differences in food preferences, and etiquette issues related to asking someone out or handling payments in restaurants. Anecdotes range from dealing with embarrassing situations to navigating complicated relationships, highlighting the importance of respect, communication, and setting boundaries in restaurant settings.

Insights

  • The importance of respecting boundaries and communication in the service industry is highlighted through various anecdotes, emphasizing that asking someone out while they are working can create discomfort and pressure, and pushing back after rejection is deemed inappropriate.
  • Setting boundaries around financial expectations in social situations is crucial, as seen in a story where a friend expected the writer to pay for expensive meals, leading to a confrontation when the writer refused to cover the cost, showcasing the significance of clear communication and mutual understanding.
  • The impact of personal behavior on others, especially in dining settings, is significant, as seen in stories where embarrassing actions or demanding behaviors affect relationships and staff, underscoring the need for respect, consideration, and empathy in interactions within the service industry.

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Recent questions

  • How can leaving a number on a receipt impact someone?

    Leaving a number on a receipt can be seen as inappropriate and uncomfortable. It may create pressure and discomfort for the recipient, especially if they are working at the time. It is crucial to consider the safety and comfort of the person being asked out before making such a gesture. Pushing back after being rejected can also be perceived negatively, so it is essential to respect boundaries and handle the situation with sensitivity.

  • Is it common for servers to flirt for tips?

    Flirting to receive a tip is a common practice among servers. However, it is important to note that this behavior can create discomfort and pressure for the recipient. Compartmentalizing interactions with customers is a common practice to maintain professionalism and respect in the service industry. It is crucial to prioritize the safety and comfort of the person being served and avoid behaviors that may be seen as inappropriate or disrespectful.

  • How can one handle embarrassing behavior in a restaurant?

    Dealing with embarrassing behavior in a restaurant requires respect and consideration for others. It is essential to communicate openly and address the situation discreetly to avoid further embarrassment. Compromising the comfort of others for personal reasons, such as celebrating a birthday loudly, can lead to discomfort for those around. Understanding restaurant limitations and respecting the staff's boundaries are crucial in maintaining a positive dining experience for everyone involved.

  • What are some common challenges faced by restaurant staff?

    Restaurant staff often face challenges related to accommodating specific food modifications and dealing with demanding customers. The impact of specific requests on kitchen and service staff can be significant, affecting the overall dining experience. Observant diners may notice cleanliness issues or judge servers based on their interactions. It is important for staff to navigate these challenges professionally and prioritize customer satisfaction while maintaining respect and professionalism in their roles.

  • How can one navigate boundaries when paying for meals with friends?

    Setting boundaries when paying for meals with friends is essential to maintain healthy relationships. Clearly communicating expectations and financial limitations can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. It is crucial to respect each other's financial situations and avoid putting undue pressure on others to cover expenses. Handling disagreements or uncomfortable situations with grace and understanding can help preserve friendships and ensure that dining experiences remain enjoyable for all parties involved.

Related videos

Summary

00:00

"Service Industry Stories: People, Vibes, Anecdotes"

  • Shayne, Chanse, and Amanda are discussing stories related to the service industry.
  • The theme of the discussion is experiences in the service industry, particularly in restaurants and bars.
  • Chanse and Amanda share their experiences working in various restaurants since a young age.
  • They talk about the fun and challenges of working in the service industry, emphasizing the importance of people and vibes.
  • The conversation shifts to stories of unusual customers and experiences shared anonymously on the internet.
  • An anecdote is shared about a customer claiming their latte causes seizures due to autoimmune epilepsy.
  • The customer repeatedly sends back their drink, suspecting it causes seizures, leading to frustration among the staff.
  • The customer's behavior escalates to stalking and attempting to manipulate baristas, causing disruptions.
  • Comments from individuals with epilepsy highlight the seriousness of risking seizures over a coffee drink.
  • The discussion concludes with a humorous story of a person bringing their own bottle of ranch dressing to a restaurant to enjoy their meal.

10:54

Cultural clash over ranch dressing in relationship

  • The narrator went out with Michael, who was put off when she left to buy dressing during their meal.
  • Michael didn't walk her to her car after the meal and left abruptly.
  • The narrator shared the incident with her roommate, who criticized her behavior, suggesting she embarrassed Michael.
  • The narrator defended her actions, stating it was just a condiment, not a full meal.
  • The restaurant they dined at was a Polish Hungarian place with dill and sour cream, not a typical chain restaurant.
  • The group discussed the cultural differences in food preferences and the importance of trying new foods.
  • They debated whether the narrator's insistence on ranch dressing was a deal-breaker in a relationship.
  • Comments from others online criticized the narrator for not trying the food without ranch and labeled her behavior as disrespectful.
  • The group discussed the importance of communication and respect in such situations.
  • The conversation shifted to another story about a man singing "Happy Birthday" to his son in a restaurant, sparking a new debate.

20:20

Ned's Public Birthday Celebration Causes Conflict

  • Ned takes his son everywhere, even to places not child-friendly, causing issues.
  • Ned celebrated his son's fifth birthday at an expensive restaurant, surprising the narrator.
  • The narrator expected a home celebration but was surprised by a restaurant birthday cake.
  • Ned loudly sang happy birthday, embarrassing the narrator in public.
  • The narrator tried to stop Ned discreetly, but he ignored her, leading to further embarrassment.
  • The staff didn't intervene, and a woman even offered to record the singing.
  • The narrator later confronted Ned in the car about her embarrassment.
  • Ned defended his actions, stating he was cheering up his son due to his sick mother.
  • The narrator and Ned haven't spoken since the incident, with Ned feeling hurt by the confrontation.
  • The narrator questions if she was wrong for feeling embarrassed and if Ned is overreacting by not communicating.

30:23

"Etiquette of Asking Someone Out"

  • Leaving your number on a receipt is acceptable for asking someone out
  • Waiting until the end of the interaction is crucial before asking someone out
  • Asking someone out while they are working can create discomfort and pressure
  • Flirting to receive a tip is a common practice among servers
  • Leaving a number on a receipt can alleviate pressure on the recipient
  • Asking someone out while they are working can be seen as inappropriate and uncomfortable
  • Pushing back after being rejected makes one an asshole
  • The safety and comfort of the person being asked out should be a top priority
  • Compartmentalizing interactions with customers is a common practice for servers
  • NordVPN offers cybersecurity protection for online activities, especially on public wifi networks.

41:15

Unpaid Meals Lead to Wallet Incident

  • The writer's friend frequently expects them to pay for expensive restaurant meals, citing the writer's higher income.
  • Despite the writer's financial situation, they have previously paid for meals and asked to be reimbursed, but the friend never repaid.
  • The friend made a reservation at a costly restaurant, and the writer clearly stated they wouldn't pay.
  • The writer secretly took the friend's wallet before dining out, leading to a confrontation when the friend realized.
  • The friend accused the writer of inappropriate behavior for handling her wallet.
  • The friend saw the writer's post online and confronted them for discussing her behavior.
  • Comments from others supported the writer's actions, criticizing the friend's behavior.
  • The discussion expanded to general etiquette on paying for meals and setting boundaries with guests.
  • Another story involved a person leaving itemized tips to compensate for their spouse's demanding behavior at restaurants.
  • The spouse was upset at being embarrassed by the written tips, leading to a discussion on the impact of such actions on restaurant staff and relationships.

51:37

Communication Struggles in Marriage and Restaurants

  • The man has tried to communicate with his wife about his concerns, but she doesn't see an issue with it.
  • He showed his wife what he wrote down, expressing that she has been embarrassing him to the staff.
  • The husband feels he is compensating for past embarrassments caused by his wife.
  • Despite their unique love language, the husband's actions may lead to resentment in their marriage.
  • Suggestions are made that the husband should have simply added an extra tip instead of writing down reasons.
  • The behavior of the wife, particularly in restaurants, is seen as problematic and potentially disrespectful to the staff.
  • The impact of specific food modifications on restaurant staff is highlighted, emphasizing the challenges faced by the kitchen and service staff.
  • Comments from others suggest varying opinions on the situation, with some supporting the husband's actions and others criticizing both parties.
  • The importance of understanding restaurant limitations in accommodating specific requests is stressed.
  • Personal anecdotes and reflections on dealing with controlling behavior in dining situations are shared, highlighting the need for respect and consideration in restaurant settings.

01:01:49

Observant diners tip generously, value professionalism.

  • Diners in restaurants can be observant and critical, noticing the kitchen and service quality.
  • Despite being discerning, diners often tip generously, usually at least 20%.
  • Diners prefer professional interactions with servers rather than becoming friends.
  • Some diners may reveal they are servers themselves, impacting their expectations.
  • Observant diners notice dirty sections and may judge servers based on cleanliness.
  • Diners appreciate easy interactions and may request modifications politely.
  • A Reddit post addresses a diner's behavior, emphasizing separating actions from character.
  • The diner acknowledges the need to improve dining behavior after Reddit feedback.
  • A heartwarming story involves servers going above and beyond for a customer who couldn't leave home.
  • The customer, deeply touched by the servers' efforts, expresses gratitude and emotional connection.

01:11:53

"Perks of Being Chill at Restaurants"

  • Being chill and cool at a restaurant can lead to receiving free desserts and drinks, with servers offering extra treats to customers who are easygoing and unassuming.
  • Restaurants often have built-in hacks to reward customers who don't make many modifications to their orders, with servers also knowing additional ways to provide complimentary items.
  • Working in the service industry, particularly in LA, can lead to numerous perks like free drinks and connections with industry people, making dining experiences more enjoyable and interconnected.
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