Jess Jones went over to a table where a family of eight had just left, but was stunned to see what was written on the check.
Jones expected at least a 15 percent tip on the $112.03 bill, but instead found the tip section of the credit card receipt marked “LOL.”
“1 hour for food,” it said.
She said she thought she served the family well, informing them the kitchen was busier than usual because Mondays are half-price nights, but thought since the family was aware of that and because they had their drinks served and refilled in a timely manner they understood.
“Last night, I was stunned by this receipt that was left for me by a party of eight people,” Jones wrote. “I would have preferred a $0 tip than a ”LOL“ tip, but as a waitress, bad tips and harsh notes are all part of the job. Even though they did wait an hour to eat, they remained satisfied with filled drinks and proper notice that the kitchen was a bit busier than normal. I’ve worked in the service industry for five years and I take pride in providing great service to my customers.”
Jones noted that she only makes $2.50 an hour plus tips, and she and other waiters need tips to survive, not to mention she’s attending college at Rutgers University.
“Most of my paychecks are less than pocket change because I have to pay taxes on the tips I make,” she wrote. “I need tips to pay my bills. All waiters do. We spend an hour or more of our time befriending you, making you laugh, getting to know you, and making your dining experience the best it can be. We work hard, and we really do care.”
The mayor of Belmar, where the restaurant D'Jais Bar and Grill is located, said in a statement that visitors should respect workers.
‘If you visit Belmar please treat the hardworking men and women in our service industry with the same respect you would expect at your job. This is ridiculous,” Matt Doherty said.
“My experience with this table was cruel and unnecessary but sadly it’s not uncommon,” Jones added. “With that said: Please be good to your waiters. I know it’s annoying when things aren’t right. I know how aggravating it is to receive a hefty bill when all night you’ve been wondering why the table that came in after you was served before you. But waiters are mere messengers most of the time, and it’s wrong to shoot them, however bad the news.”
