How Old Do You Have to Be to Serve Up Some Serious Sass in NYC?
So, you wanna be a server in the Big Apple, huh? Good for you! You're about to embark on a thrilling journey filled with questionable fashion choices, questionable human beings, and questionable amounts of cash. But before you start dreaming of dollar bills raining down on you, let's talk about the age-old question: How old do you have to be to serve up some serious attitude and even more serious food?
Age Restrictions: The Law Says...
Let's get down to brass tacks. In New York State, you have to be at least 18 years old to serve alcohol. So, if you're planning on pouring drinks like a pro, you better hit that legal drinking age first. But don't worry, if you're only interested in slinging water and overpriced salads, you can technically start serving at a younger age. However, most restaurants prefer to hire servers who are at least 18.
Why the Age Limit?
You might be wondering why there's an age limit for serving. Well, it's not because restaurants are ageist (although, let's be real, some might be). It's mainly because serving alcohol comes with a certain level of responsibility. You need to be able to identify fake IDs, cut people off when they've had too much, and generally be a responsible adult.
The World of Underage Serving: A Myth or Reality?
Okay, so you're probably thinking, "But I've seen 16-year-olds working as servers!" And you're right, it happens. Some restaurants might bend the rules a little bit, especially for smaller, family-owned places. But let's be clear: this is illegal. So, while it might be tempting to lie about your age to get a job, it's not worth the risk.
So, You Want to Be a Server?
If you're still determined to conquer the world of NYC service, here are a few tips to get you started:
- Develop a thick skin: You're going to hear some crazy stuff.
- Master the art of multitasking: Juggling plates, drinks, and demanding customers is all in a day's work.
- Learn to love money: Tips can be good, but they can also be unpredictable.
- Be prepared to work weird hours: Say goodbye to your weekends.
- Always wear comfortable shoes: Your feet will thank you.
How To...
- How to handle a rude customer: Keep calm, smile, and remember, you're getting paid to deal with them.
- How to remember a huge order: Write it down, repeat it back to the customer, and don't be afraid to ask for clarification.
- How to deal with a picky eater: Offer suggestions, but ultimately, it's up to the customer.
- How to calculate your tip: It's usually 15-20% of the pre-tax bill.
- How to survive a crazy rush: Take a deep breath, prioritize your tasks, and don't panic.