How to Serve Men and Women as a Waiter
The rules for serving men and women as a waiter vary depending upon the dining establishment. In a more casual atmosphere, the rules are more relaxed and in an upscale or fine dining atmosphere, the rules are more rigid. Here are the general rules on how to serve men and women as a waiter for any type of dining establishment.
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Instructions
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Serve the lady first. If your table is a one man and one woman, serve all drinks, salads, entrées and desserts to the lady first. After you serve the lady, move on to serving the gentleman.
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Start with the ladies at larger tables. If your table is two couples or larger, still serve the ladies first, starting with the older lady. If the women seem like they're same age, it doesn't matter which lady you serve first.
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Begin serving the gentlemen. After all the ladies have their drinks or food, serve the men next. Again, begin with the older gentlemen if it is a larger party. If the gentlemen all look the same age, it doesn't matter which one you serve first.
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Ask if anyone needs anything else. Once you finish serving the meals to everyone, politely ask if you can get anyone anything else at this time. This is also a good time to ask individuals if they would like another beverage.
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Tips & Warnings
Always state the name of the food or drink as you are setting it down in front of your guests. This will help to avoid serving the wrong person the wrong food or drinks.
Never let food get cold. If there is one lady whose entrée is taking longer than the others, it's okay to break from the "ladies first" etiquette to avoid the other entrees from getting cold. Be sure to let your guests know what is going on so they don't think you have forgotten someone's food or drinks.
