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.