3 replies to this topic

[Suzn14806]

Is there a proper way to tip a cook/chef? I like to tip the server generously who has communicated my special needs but I would also like to show my appreciation to the person who has prepared my meal. I don't know if I should leave extra money with the server for the cook or what? How do you handle this?

[kejohe]

Well... I am a chef, and most good restaurants have a head chef, or executive chef who doesn't actually cook (most of the time), so if you want to thank them, just tell your waiter that you would like to speak with the chef in order to personally thank him/her. This has two benifits, not only can you give them a sincere thank you, but because you do they will remember you, so if you make that restaurant a regular haunt, you can begin to expect more consistency and they will be more educated about your needs and can better advise you on what you can have and what to stay away from. Lastly, if you are a good customer, they will make extra sure that their cooks will be extra careful with your food.

I had one lady come in to my cafe last summer with a note card that had all the things on it she couldn't have and I instantly recognized her by that list as a celiac, I went out and talked to her and told her about my son and she was so grateful. She also had a wonderful meal. It made me very happy to help her.

[EllaMegalast]

I am a waitress and what KEJOHE says is correct. However also know that the cook merely prepares the food as the server specifies. Think of your server as a commodities broker..negotiate with them substituting sides for salads or bread for soup or vegetable etc... Just remember that the server is slowed by all these extras. Think to yourself what time am I taking away from his/her other tables and how that could jepordize that guests meal. Also know that in most states servers only make $2.13 per hour!!!! We survive on our tips. The cooks make typically $7-8 or even more. So tipping that person is good; However, it is not as necessary as the server's tip. And yes tipping 10% is a BAD tip! To leave on a good note though letting your server know ahead of time all the things you can't have is wise and may save you time in deciding ask what they think you may like................ This will also get them on "your side"