Discussions

I am curious to hear from current/former wait-staff, or restauranteers. What is the number of refills that are appropriate? I recently had an experience where we had to beg for the first refill and the second was non existent. (This was with a meal, not just a quick coffee stop.)

If you are having a meal they should be filling it as many times as you want. If I am in a place and I am eating, I expect they should come around at least 3-4 times and ask if I would like a refill. If it is very busy, then I know they wont come around as much. If the place is empty, and I have to ask for a refill- that annoys me. I worked as a waitress for a long while and the place didn't have a limit on how many coffee refills there should be. Although maybe they should have been for the regulars who came everyday for 2-3 hours, sometimes 6 and only ordered one cup of coffee.

I fully agree with Zero_one.

Did you ask your server for more coffee?

The OP said they had to beg for their first refill.  
 
I often order coffee but seldom want a refill... I have noticed that most places will offer more 2-3 times during a meal.

With zero as well, a lot of places you have to ask for refills busy or not. Not sure if it’s just not in the training manual to go back to check on customers or if they just don’t care to in some places. I’ve been in a place where they will repeatedly go to certain tables but not acknowledge ours too. Then there’s some that come 5/6 times. But 2/3 makes sense for my usual needs.

I would be curious as to what establishment owners take on this issue is. Since they are the one paying for the "Free" refills.  
 
Being on the ball with refills is good for servers because it adds to a positive service experience, which is good for gratuity. I am curious, however, if this typically translates as a benefit to the business in general. For example, how many coffee only patrons also order food or snacks at other times?  
 
I am leaning towards yes because giving refills is common practice. But I would still be curious to hear what the other side has to say.  
 
Edited by Simonwalcal, 2019-06-11 14:06:35