NYC blogger Darron Cardosa has acquired something of a following among members of the hospitality industry currently serving on active duty, and can easily elicit a giggle or a groan from those who’ve done their time and moved on.

It’s Monday, so we’re giving Flagler News Weekly readers a double header today with a second “The Big Five” guest in hopes that when you’re out and about you may show your waitstaff a little extra love. And if you’re in the hospitality industry maybe you’ll get a giggle or two out of his cheeky style.  

How and why did you get started as “The Bitchy Waiter”?  December of 2008. I had a very bad day at work and started blogging that night for myself and my friends because it just made me feel better to get it off my chest.

What do you love most about being part of the hospitality industry? Corny, but I really do like to make people happy. Knowing that I can be a part of their special occasion or even make a not-so-great day be a better one is all part of the hospitality industry. I also like the flexible schedule.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned about people as part of the hospitality industry? I’ve seen customers get so upset about the smallest detail. It’s like they forget this is one meal out of thousands and thousands in their life. It helps me to remember to not sweat the small stuff. It’s just lunch. There’s another one tomorrow.

You identify some pretty funny stereotypes and situations hospitality workers deal with on a daily basis. How do you think this can help when people have had a really tough day at work? When I write a story or share a meme, my hope is that it reminds someone who may be experiencing the same situation that they are not alone.

People sometimes look down on hospitality workers, but really it’s a noble profession. What advice would you give people out there working hard to support their families through hospitality? I always encourage those in the service industry to not let someone else determine whether or not what they do is important. We all do the job that we choose to do. It’s honest, hard work and no one should feel guilty or embarrassed by working, no matter what job they have.

Bonus: Share your three favorite pet peeves and ultimate favs when it comes to guests. 

Three pet peeves from guests: Telling me they are ready to order when they are not ready to order. Asking me what’s on the menu without actually looking at the menu. Customers who linger in the restaurant not allowing the table to turn over to someone else.

Three favorite things they can say or do: Obviously, tipping. Being appreciative and grateful for a job well done. (Saying) thank you.

Want more?

Check out Darron Cardosa as The Bitchy Waiter here or here.Â