Over the years, he's become so well versed in restaurant labor law that his attorneys don't even charge him for filing lawsuits anymore. 'They take them on spec,' he boasts. 'By now, they know that if I file something, it's legit.' Eddie Santana, restaurant rebel, has filed 30 lawsuits against companies — nearly all restaurants and bars — for everything from illegal tip pools to excessive uniform costs. He's netted $144,924.79 after attorney fees from 20 separate settlements. And from the nine suits still pending, he hopes to make another $100,000, if not more.
posted by shakespeherian on Mar 21, 2011 - 49 comments

A restaurant in Japan employs Monkey Waiters. They're not the worst waiters in the world and you only have to tip them with edamame.
posted by Secret Life of Gravy on Oct 7, 2008 - 60 comments

The Waiter unmasked. After several years of consistently great writing about his experiences as a high-end waiter on his blog Waiter Rant (previously), Steve Dublanica has finally revealed his identity. With the release of his book, Waiter Rant: Thanks for the Tip- Confessions of a Cynical Waiter, he is trading in his apron for a book tour.
posted by kimdog on Jul 29, 2008 - 115 comments

Nunc Dimittis. My favorite waiter-blogger's finest piece so far.
posted by growabrain on Jun 23, 2005 - 22 comments

Gilberto Eyzaguirre may be the most popular waiter in New Orleans but that did not stop the restaurant management from firing him after receiving a second sexual harassment accusation. Watrons are up in arms and even created a web site in support of him. To date, the management refuses to budge (he remains unemployed). This is a long but fascinating read if just for a peek into the passion they have for food.
posted by KevinSkomsvold on Jul 10, 2002 - 44 comments