Keep It Quiet: Why Silence Is the Best Thanks for Extra Fries

‘LPT: If a server or cashier at a restaurant gives you extra of something for no charge, and you are later asked by a manager if that employee was doing their job well, don’t mention that they gave you extra food. It could potentially get them in trouble’

This tip works because it protects employees while appreciating their kindness. First, mentioning free extras might violate restaurant policies, risking disciplinary action for the employee, even if they were being friendly. Second, focusing on their overall service—like attentiveness or efficiency—still gives them credit without exposing potential rule-breaking.

Third, it builds trust; employees will value your discretion, fostering goodwill. By keeping the freebie quiet, you’re not just being considerate—you’re ensuring their generous act doesn’t backfire, while still supporting their good work.

This approach has extra benefits:

• Encourages kindness: Discretion makes employees feel safe being generous.
• Builds rapport: Your tact can create a positive connection with staff.
• Promotes fairness: You reward good service without unintended consequences.

Have you ever received a free extra from a restaurant worker? How did you handle feedback about their service? What would you do if a manager asked about an employee who gave you something extra?

This Redditor’s advice is like a secret handshake for restaurant regulars. Free extras, like an extra scoop of fries or a complimentary drink, are often small acts of kindness, but they can skirt company rules. Mentioning them to a manager might trigger disciplinary action, even if the intent was to praise. The challenge is balancing gratitude with discretion to avoid unintended consequences for the employee.

This ties into a broader issue: workplace policies in hospitality are often strict. A 2023 study by the National Restaurant Association found that 60% of restaurant workers face tight rules on comping items, with violations risking penalties (NRA). Keeping quiet protects the employee’s goodwill.

Hospitality expert Saru Jayaraman notes, “Small gestures like free extras build customer loyalty, but workers need support to navigate rigid policies” (Forbes). Her insight aligns with the Redditor’s tip: focus on the employee’s attentiveness or friendliness when giving feedback, not the freebie. This ensures they shine without risk.

To apply this, praise specific service qualities—like promptness or warmth—when speaking to a manager. Tip generously to show gratitude for extras, as many Redditors suggest. If asked directly, keep it vague but positive. How do you show appreciation for great service? Share your tips below to keep the good vibes flowing!

Here’s what Redditors had to say:

The Reddit crowd served up a feast of reactions, from snarky quips to heartfelt cautionary tales, as juicy as a free side of fries.

These takes raise a question: is staying silent the ultimate thank-you, or are there other ways to reward kindness? What’s your approach?

This Redditor’s tip is a masterclass in restaurant etiquette. By keeping free extras hush-hush, you protect the server’s kindness and still champion their great work. It’s about being a thoughtful customer, not a snitch. Have you ever gotten a freebie from a restaurant worker? How did you handle feedback about them? Drop your story below—what would you do if a manager asked about an employee who slipped you something extra?