mano
Senior Member
- Joined
- Jun 21, 2004
- Messages
- 443
- Reaction score
- 2
Originally Posted by nyf
While it's probably not a good idea to show up the maitre' D, some claim that making reservations as doctor leads to improved service at restaurants, airports, etc. Is that any more wrong than wearing a tie on a flight to get better service?
Interestingly, during grad school I worked at several upscale restaurants as a waiter, sometimes doing table-side cooking (Bananas Foster and steak au poivre), and working as a prep cook. Some of the biggest jerks and poorest tippers were physicians! While generalizations aren't necessarily fair, the people who made reservations under "Dr." were often overbearing and treated waitstaff like crap while expecting to get their asses kissed. My arrogant behavior with the maitre'D was, unfortunately, fairly typical.
I have friends who are physicians and a few use "Dr." One of them uses it all the time when making reservations, at the mechanics and even when he goes to the post office. He happens to be a great guy and everyone he deals with enjoys calling him "Dr." They give him excellent service because he appreciates them.
BTW, you get the best service at restaurants by keeping your reservation, being respectful of the waitstaff, showing a true appreciation of good service and good food. If a meal is really excellent, I'll send a note thanking them. If the place isn't too busy, I've been known to ask to go back to the kitchen to thank the chef personally. I'll usually bring him/her a glass of wine. I also like checking out the goings on and the cooking stuff in the kitchen.