A restaurant server who takes orders, delivers food and drinks, and ensures guests have a positive dining experience.
What waiters do
Waiters greet guests, present menus, take orders, suggest pairings, deliver food and drinks, refill water, clear tables, and process payments. They balance speed and warmth and serve as the main link between kitchen and guest throughout a meal.
Training path
Most US waiters learn on the job, often after starting as bussers or hosts. Fine-dining establishments may run multi-week training on wine, service technique, and menu philosophy. Food handler and alcohol service certifications are required in many states.
Settings
Waiters work in quick-service, casual, family, and fine-dining restaurants, banquet halls, hotels, country clubs, cruise ships, theme parks, and luxury train and event services. Many serve in tipped roles where compensation depends heavily on table service.
Find more professions by letter
Waiter starts with W and ends with R. Browse other professions along the same letter.
Professions that contain a letter from "Waiter":