Friday, May 10, 2013

L'addition s'il vous plait


 I truly believe that I could spend an entire visit to Paris and only photograph the waiters. They take their jobs so seriously, and do it so well.   When you think about how long their hours are, and how efficient they are, I'm willing to cut them some slack on friendliness.  That said, I've had some delightful waiters in my day!

14 comments:

M said...

V - they are truy fascinating to watch. I must say, that the Italian waiters give them some stiff competition!

JudyMac said...

My waiter at the Cafe de Flore was a real sweetheart, and I have a picture of his smiling face to prove it! :-)

Jeanie said...

I've never had a bad one, and I think it depends on how busy they are. But efficient regardless!

bobbi said...

I have several standout experiences with French waiters. One was horrible - nasty, didn't want to deal with an American fumbling with her high school French. Years later after some practice, another one was so charming and I loved how they call you 'Madame', even as I sat there in my clunky walking shoes and jeans. Then there was the Basque restaurant where the young man and I sang along to the Elvis CD he played for background music. Drove my young adult kids, who were with us, crazy. Oh Mom! And let me also mention the Italians - In Verona there was a charming young man who kept touching my arm as he poured my wine. Kids were with us then too and I told them I was taking him home with me even though I was old enough to be his mother. Another Oh Mom moment! I am a sucker for some respect and appreciation, I guess. I think American men in general can take a page from the Europeans. Ah, for some romance...

Virginia said...

bobbi,
What lovely memories. Yes, the American men can certainly take a page or two! I love the attention even though I'm perfectly aware that they do it to ALL the ladies who come there. Sigh...
V

Angele Style said...

My experience with the waiters the one time I went to Paris was fascinating as well. That is the perfect word for it because if one pays attention it is an ART FORM the way they perform their work. I just love that photo...it has nothing to do with phony smiling and saying have a nice day it has everything to do with style and grace.

Alexa said...

Well captured, V! In New York, they're mostly all young and just came from an audition. In France (and Italy), they're pros—and it shows! I had one negative experience, at my (former, I'm afraid) fave Paris restaurant, but all the good experiences make up for it. Basically, I love these guys.

Starman said...

The most important thing all of you neglected to mention is that the waiters in Europe actually make a living wage. The don't have to depend on "tips". THAT'S why they don't care if you sit there with one cup of coffee for three or four hours!

Virginia said...

Starman,
Good point. I forgot to add that part. THey are quick, efficient and I love that. They also leave you to enjoy your meal or coffee without hovering.

Jack said...

Now, THIS is a photo that works in black and white. It works because the main subject -- the waiter -- is separated out from the background and from his guests. His head is outlined and complete, and the white shirt and and apron and black vest and pants define him clearly. The guests are in the shadows and are indistinct grays, so the attention moves from them to the waiter. See? Sometimes I appreciate black and white. Not often, but sometimes.

Stuart said...

Very nice shot. I like the added benefits of the wet pavement. I would guess the wait staff problems that most folks encounter are in the highly touristy areas in Paris. But even that has changed dramatically since I have been coming to France. I think the word finally got out in the 90s that tourism is so important, those that cater to the tourists had better change their ways. And I think they did.

Palomasea said...

This is a splendid shot, dear Virginia...
I think it's terrific that the waiters have such pride in their work..I really have only had positive experiences.
Enjoy le weekend!
Bises,
- Irina

PerthDailyPhoto said...

Perfect B&W moment Virginia, it looks a little rainy and cold! It's Paris, who cares about the weather oui :)

Joe said...

Now this is just the way Paris should be V. A formally dressed waiter serving coffee to an outside table on a cobble stoned street. Great classic shot.