What are the Side Work Duties as a Waiter in a Restaurant?

Although the specific duties will vary depending on the establishment, the one thing any waiter or waitress can count on is having to do side work--all the cleaning and stocking duties needed to keep the restaurant running smoothly.

Function

By assigning various tasks to specific servers, side work ensures that the restaurant will not run out of supplies during the night, while not requiring too much work of any individual.

Types

Side work includes such duties as stocking beverage glasses, brewing coffee, refilling to-go supplies, ensuring adequate condiments are available, checking salad preparation supplies and keeping soup pots stocked.

Features

In addition to running side work, which is performed continuously throughout the shift, a server may also have opening or closing side work, such as folding napkins or rolling silverware, which has to be performed only once per shift.

Considerations

Because side work is designed to divide tasks among the entire staff, if one or two individuals do not keep up with their duties, the rest of the staff will have to pick up the slack.

Warning

Side work is time-consuming and reduces the amount of time you can spend with customers. It can be difficult to balance side work with providing good service, potentially affecting your tips.