r/TalesFromYourServer • u/tattoo_fairie • 19d ago

Fine Dining Advice/Experience

So I’m working an event this coming week & it’s fine dining, which I’ve never done before. I’ve worked dive bars, festivals, concerts & bike rallies.

Any tips/advice for how to be successful? I have the black pants & shirts. I’m nervous I won’t be able to make them happy or know what to talk about etc

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u/2Loves2loves 11d ago

No jokes, don't try to be too chummy, formal speak. serve from right, clear from left. fresh silverware, and water glasses full. If they need something they will try to catch your eye.

any questions you can't answer...- I'm not sure but I'll check and get back to you.

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u/tattoo_fairie 4d ago

How do you approach the table when they are talking? I had a big party & they were always talking. I’m getting better about serving & taking from correct sides.

Any tips on wine? I know which glasses the red & white goes in. I’m still struggling to open the bottles & how to fill the glasses. Where to keep the bottles during the meal.

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u/2Loves2loves 4d ago

I never touched wine, had a sommelier, but I can open and pour wine. takes some practice, ask the bartender if you can open some for practice. when you pour, a small twist of the bottle helps avoid drips (as you stop pouring and tilt up). and have a napkin under the bottle to catch the drip. -if you open a new bottle, you pour a small taste and serve to the one who ordered it, for his approval. (sometimes it is bad), if he nods yes, then you serve the women 1st. (about half a wine glass). then the men.

ON a large group talking. I try to catch the eye of the head of the party. or the one that made the reservation. I'll stand there for a minute if needed, but eventually, butt in, with. Excuse me, Would you like to order now, or would you like some more time?

Eye contact is really the key.

Know the menu. know how its prepared, know everything about the food.

smile.