Waiters and Waitresses Waiters and Waitresses Waiters and waitresses serve food and beverages to customers. The main duties of waiters and waitresses are to take customers' orders and serve food and beverages. They prepare itemized checks and may take payments to the cashier.
Restaurants vary in the type of service they provide.
At many restaurants, waiters and waitresses provide quick, courteous service. At fine restaurants, they provide formal and attentive service. Workers at fine restaurants also may recommend wines and explain how dishes are prepared. Occasionally they may prepare salads or other special dishes at table side. The type of restaurant also determines the duties of waiters and waitresses.