20 Server Pet Peeves Every Alabama Diner Should Know Before Eating Out Again

Alabama diners know good food and good service go hand in hand. But even the friendliest server has limits when faced with inconsiderate customers.

While they may not say it out loud, certain behaviors wear them down fast.

These bad habits are worth changing if you want better service.

Flagging Down the Wrong Server

In busy restaurants, it’s common for guests to stop the first server who walks by, even if that person isn’t assigned to their table.

This interrupts another server’s flow and may lead to missed or delayed requests.

Servers usually have designated sections, and grabbing the wrong one can create confusion.

If you need something urgently, it’s better to wait a moment or politely ask your server during their next check-in.

Saying “I Know What I Want” and Then Not Being Ready

Some diners insist they’re ready to order, only to spend the next five minutes staring at the menu or asking about every ingredient.

This throws off the server’s rhythm and slows service for other tables.

It’s okay to need more time, just say so.

Trying to rush the order before you’re actually ready creates more confusion and stress.

Talking on the Phone While Ordering

Ordering a meal while talking on the phone is rude, not to mention inefficient.

It’s hard for servers to get your full attention, and it holds up the ordering process for everyone.

Important details can be missed, which leads to mistakes that the server often gets blamed for.

Taking a moment to pause your call is a small courtesy that makes a big difference.

Letting Kids Leave a Mess with No Effort to Help

Servers expect spills and crumbs when kids are at the table, but there’s a line.

When parents let kids crush crackers, drop food, or smear condiments across the table with no apology, it adds stress to an already tough job.

A quick “sorry about the mess” or an effort to tidy up goes a long way.

It shows respect for the person who has to clean it up after you leave.

Asking for “Something Not on the Menu”

Servers don’t mind a substitution or small change. But asking for a completely made-up item or off-menu creation slows everything down.

Requests like “Can I get the pasta but with steak instead of chicken and a different sauce?” can frustrate both servers and kitchen staff.

If it’s not listed, there’s a good chance it’s not available.

It’s better to work within the options provided or ask politely what’s possible.

Leaving a Big Mess and Then Tipping Poorly

Servers understand not every table will be spotless, but when guests leave food on the floor, wrappers everywhere, and used napkins all over, and then tip badly, it stings.

Cleanups take time, and low tips after a messy meal feel like a double insult.

Most servers won’t say anything, but they definitely remember it.

Tipping fairly shows appreciation for all the extra effort behind the scenes.

Ignoring the Server’s Greeting or Small Talk

Most servers are trained to greet guests warmly and set a friendly tone, even if it’s just a quick hello.

When diners ignore them or respond with one-word answers, it can make the entire interaction feel cold.

It doesn’t mean you have to make conversation, but basic courtesy helps build a better dining experience for both sides.

A smile or a simple “How are you?” goes a long way.

Snapping Fingers or Waving to Get Their Attention

Servers are trained to be attentive, but they’re not mind readers. Snapping or waving feels dismissive and disrespectful.

Most servers are juggling multiple tables and will check in as soon as they can.

Drawing attention like that makes guests stand out for the wrong reasons.

A simple glance or raised hand is enough in most places, no snapping required.

Asking for Free Extras Without Understanding the Cost

It may seem harmless to ask for extra cheese, an extra side, or a handful of sauces, but those little extras often come with a price.

When guests act surprised or annoyed that they cost money, it puts the server in an uncomfortable spot.

Most servers don’t make the pricing rules, and they can’t give things away for free.

Asking politely and accepting the answer makes things easier for everyone.

Ordering One Item at a Time Instead of All at Once

When a guest orders a drink, then decides on an appetizer, then finally gives their meal order ten minutes later, it slows everything down.

The server has to make multiple trips, and the kitchen gets hit with scattered tickets.

This also delays food for the rest of the table.

Taking a few extra minutes to decide before ordering helps things run more smoothly.

Letting Drinks Run Empty Without Saying Anything

Servers do their best to keep drinks filled, but they’re also juggling other tables and tasks.

Some guests wait until they’re visibly frustrated before saying something about needing a refill.

A quick heads-up makes it easier for the server to meet your needs without falling behind.

There’s nothing wrong with asking, just don’t expect mind reading.

Complaining About the Wait After Ordering Something Complicated

Special requests and custom orders often take longer to prepare, especially during busy times.

When guests modify every part of their meal and then complain about how long it’s taking, it puts pressure on both the server and the kitchen.

A little patience goes a long way, especially when the request requires extra effort.

If time is tight, it’s better to stick with standard menu items.

Moving to a Different Table Without Asking

Some diners choose their own table after being seated, especially if they spot an open booth or a quieter corner.

But moving without telling anyone can confuse the entire flow of service.

Servers often have assigned sections, and moving disrupts the seating chart and kitchen timing.

A quick ask before switching tables avoids mix-ups and keeps service on track.

Ignoring Restaurant Hours and Staying Too Long

Servers expect guests to enjoy their meal, but lingering well past closing time can delay cleaning and clock-out.

When diners stay after the lights dim and the music stops, it often means the staff must wait before finishing their shift.

Many servers depend on tips, and staying late without ordering more can hurt their take-home pay.

Leaving on time shows respect for the staff’s schedule.

Blaming the Server for Things Out of Their Control

It’s frustrating when food is late, a dish isn’t cooked right, or the restaurant runs out of a favorite item.

But taking it out on the server, who didn’t make the food or manage inventory, only makes things worse.

Most servers want to fix the problem and will do their best if treated kindly.

Patience and politeness go much further than blame.

Asking for Separate Checks at the Last Minute

Servers don’t mind splitting checks, if they know about it early.

Waiting until after the meal to ask for five separate checks can cause delays and errors, especially when a table has complicated orders.

It’s a common request, but timing matters.

Letting the server know before ordering helps them keep everything organized from the start.

Giving a 1-Star Review Instead of Speaking Up

When something goes wrong, many guests stay silent during the meal but later leave a bad online review.

Servers often have no idea anything was wrong until it’s too late to fix it.

Most are more than willing to correct an issue if it’s mentioned politely in person.

Feedback is helpful, but only if it gives the restaurant a fair chance to respond.

Letting Kids Roam Around the Restaurant

It might seem harmless to let young kids wander between tables or around the dining area, but it’s dangerous and disruptive.

Servers carry hot plates and heavy trays, and a child underfoot could get hurt.

Even in family-friendly spots, safety matters.

Keeping kids at the table shows respect for everyone’s space and safety.

Expecting Free Food Just Because You’re Upset

Some guests believe that a small inconvenience deserves a full refund or free dessert, even when the issue is minor.

Servers have limited power when it comes to comps and discounts.

Pushing for freebies creates pressure and tension that affects the whole shift.

Genuine problems deserve solutions, but not every inconvenience means the meal should be free.

Asking “What’s Good Here?” Without Giving Any Clues

This question puts servers on the spot, especially if guests give no hints about what they like.