[Michael.SF.]

It has been that way for ages. I worked as a waiter at a high class French restaurant while going to college. Typical night was $150.00, Then the split was:

Maitre D - 10%
Bartender/cocktail waitress - 10%
Busboys - 10%
Kitchen crew - 5%

From my $150, I went home with about $100.

I worked 4 nights a week and made about $400 a week, plus wages (about $75 a week).

My apartment (3 blocks to the beach) was $150 a month. I was not complaining about either the minimum wage or the splits, as they all earned it.

I bet the system of splits has not changed over the years.

[PAR35]

Maitre d’ should have been on a kickback system. If he was good, he should be able to size up what kind of tipper they would be, and put them at the tables of the waiters that kicked back the best. Busboy makes some sense. If they weren’t there, the waitstaff would have to bus their own tables. Bar and cocktail should get a cut off the drinks they pour/serve - did they share back some of their tips?