In a dining establishment or other public place that serves alcohol, a cocktail server is responsible for taking drink orders and delivering those drinks to tables of guests. Some establishments require cocktail servers to clean tables after guests have left as well, in order to prepare the table for new guests who are about to arrive. A cocktail server in a casino, particularly in Las Vegas, will be on her feet for several hours, taking drink orders and serving them to customers. Although male servers do exist, servers are traditionally female. The cocktail server’s income is primarily derived from tips, though he or she is also paid a base hourly wage.
When taking a drink order, the cocktail server must often accurately record multiple orders at once before relaying the information to the bartender. She will then be in charge of garnishing the drinks that require it, as well as transporting them to the customers. This can be difficult in crowded restaurants and bars, as a full tray of drinks is heavy and easy to spill. Casinos frequently hire cocktail servers only if they have a significant amount of experience, ensuring that they are getting a server who can work quickly without spilling drinks on expensive gambling machines and tables.
In the past, male servers primarily served as bartenders and did not leave the bar area. However, in recent years, restaurants have begun to hire more male servers, and it is not uncommon to see a man serving cocktails in bars and restaurants. Female servers are still more prevalent, and in casinos, they are frequently required to dress in themed outfits that complement the casino’s aesthetics. This is also a requirement in some restaurants, though it is much less common, and servers typically wear a simple uniform.
Cocktail servers typically earn a significant amount of money in tips, which varies depending on the popularity of the establishment and the performance of the server. However, a consistent income is not guaranteed because some nights may be busier than others. A server can expect to be on her feet for several hours at a time, and she will be required to move quickly, clean tables, assist with bartending, and frequently monitor patrons’ alcohol consumption. A server is often the first to notice if a customer has been overserved, and the server must then inform a manager or bartender to prevent the customer from being served again that night.