I was on the brink of quitting but for some reason decided to stick with it and try to both improve and just simply prove. Prove that I could do it. This sceanrio was one of the first times I can look back and recall how important managers and work environments are for mr. Wiith his energy focused on starting another restaurant in town, that guy kind of faded into ththe distance and another manager began taking over day to day operations. Once that happened, I actually did really well. Still a proud moment for me, I received the "Employee of the Month" only a few weeks later.
I somehow got the hang and pace of welcoming guests, filling water, placing orders, checking in, presenting the check and bussing tables. I mastered small talk and again, enjoyed the customer service component of the job. With margarita Mondays and taco Tuesdays, it became pretty clear what the popular orders would be. It was the first time I checked IDs, poured beer from tap, witnessed intensely drunk people, was flirted with by a co-worker, and met a person named Atticus who wasn't just a fictional character in Harper Lee's tale. For some reason that just sticks out to me. Tuesday night was a special night - the Bucks came in. If you were assigned their table and did a good job they would tip you $30. We all loved them! I would love to be a regular somewhere and pay it forward...literally.
I went back a few years ago and was visibly bummed to see it had turned into a Rico's, a chain restaurant. I didn't know the owners had changed so when I drove up in the parking lot, I kind of freaked out. I really wanted queso and those fish tacos! So unfortunately I can't go back, but I will always remember those colorful chairs and classify this as a good summer job. I gained confidence in interacting with people and managing busy situations and now appreciate good service and notice when it's bad.
Tip your servers, kids!
-SJW
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