> Hell, I can walk to kitchen window it get it myself with less hassle.
But would you be at that particular restaurant at that moment if that's how they do business? A lot of restaurants self-service from the counter, no waitresses at all, so obviously it can work and most people find it acceptable at least some of the time. Fast food restaurants are an obvious example, but lots of independent lunch-oriented restaurants with great food operate in the same way.
So why do waitresses still exist at all? I think it's because there's still consumer demand for that sort of dining experience. And if that's what you want, shouldn't you be willing to pay for it? Maybe you pay for it with tips or maybe through higher prices on the menu, but either way it is human labor that needs to be paid for by the paying customers one way or the other.
> But would you be at that particular restaurant at that moment if that's how they do business?
I am not sure I understand what you as asking. I would voluntarily go to a restaurant that offers service like this because I do go to restaurants like this rather frequently. These are not fast food restaurants either, but local businesses in my city. Greek restaurants, Mexican restaurants, Southern BBQ restaurants, etc.. I honestly prefer it.
I still tip at those restaurants because I do not mind supporting local businesses I enjoy. The difference is I do it out of choice and not out of socially pressured obligation. Most of the places I frequent share tips amongst all their staff as well.
> So why do waitresses still exist at all?*
Antiquity would be my best guess. Clearly, we do not need them from a technological standpoint if I can just tap a tablet touchscreen and have my order.
> I think it's because there's still consumer demand for that sort of dining experience. And if that's what you want, shouldn't you be willing to pay for it?
I go to restaurants for the food. I do not choose to go because of the experience of being waited on. I've never seen a high class restaurant without waiting staff, so I do agree with your point that there is some "experience" aspect, at least for some. But I think it's more for an image than practicality.
> Maybe you pay for it with tips or maybe through higher prices on the menu
Maybe you pay for it with tips AND maybe through higher prices on the menu.
People need to earn a living, and I get that. It's just odd that the US and Canada are one of the only countries with this culture.
I've yet to see a comment any time this topic is discussed where someone from Europe, Asia, or Africa chimes in saying something like, "I wish we had tipping culture in our country." It's always quite the opposite.
But would you be at that particular restaurant at that moment if that's how they do business? A lot of restaurants self-service from the counter, no waitresses at all, so obviously it can work and most people find it acceptable at least some of the time. Fast food restaurants are an obvious example, but lots of independent lunch-oriented restaurants with great food operate in the same way.
So why do waitresses still exist at all? I think it's because there's still consumer demand for that sort of dining experience. And if that's what you want, shouldn't you be willing to pay for it? Maybe you pay for it with tips or maybe through higher prices on the menu, but either way it is human labor that needs to be paid for by the paying customers one way or the other.