"I used to have this mindset": A Texas Roadhouse server shares that she often encounters two distinct types of groups at her tables. She then advises against embodying one particular type.

A server from Texas Roadhouse recently gained attention on TikTok by highlighting two distinct categories of customers she encounters. In her viral video, she cautioned viewers about a prevalent behavior exhibited by one of these groups.

The TikTok video shared by user @vegangirl1987 garnered more than 2.3 million views, prompting a flood of responses from fellow users who agreed with the perspective of the food service worker.

"The server states in a text overlay, 'When dining out, there are two distinct types of people.'"

Initially, she displays a video featuring a single table. It showcases several plates piled on one another, with all the cutlery neatly arranged on the uppermost plate. At the top, there's also a ramekin that holds a sauce container. The stack on the "good" table is decorated with both cloth and paper napkins.

She then shifts her camera lens to capture the other category of restaurant patrons—the “bad” ones. In her commentary, she adds, “Make sure you’re not like the second table.”

She showcases a table where the dishes are laid out haphazardly. Leftover food remains on the plates, drinks are half-consumed, and the bread basket holds untouched rolls. Clearly, the second table demands more attention from the bussers to properly clear and set up for incoming guests.

Diverse viewpoints

Although the TikToker strongly endorsed the post-meal routine of table one, perspectives on this method differ widely.

According to Chowhound, restaurant patrons should “think twice” before stacking their plates at a restaurant. The outlet states that due to individual server and eatery methodologies, stacking plates could hinder more than help wait staff.

Additionally, the article notes that certain servers might perceive a sense of “disrespect.” This feeling arises from the belief that “customers are taking on their responsibilities.”

But Chowhound does concede that there are some instances where this is considered acceptable. In fast-casual restaurants, plate stacking is generally perceived as a thoughtful and welcomed gesture. However, the website writes, “the higher-end the restaurant, the more of a no-no it is.”

Is it advisable to stack your plates at a restaurant?

This sentiment was also echoed in a Reddit post uploaded to the r/NoStupidQuestions sub. The original poster wrote that they, too, saw conflicting opinions on post-meal plate prepping.

"My parents have consistently taught me that it's impolite to stack your dirty plates after eating at a restaurant," they mentioned. "Yet, I recall seeing a post from a server who expressed gratitude when diners do this. Is there a general consensus on the etiquette regarding this matter?"

A user on the app mentioned that upscale dining venues typically frown upon the practice of stacking plates. “In the realm of fine dining and proper etiquette, that’s true. You should never stack your plates. However, in more casual settings like family-owned diners, it’s completely acceptable to do so. In fact, servers often welcome it in certain situations,” they wrote.

Furthermore, a server contributed their perspective on the issue. They mentioned that they are okay with customers stacking plates, but only if it’s done “properly.” This means not creating more mess than they would typically have to manage. They also explained their table-clearing process, which enables them to efficiently “grab and go.”

"At this point, I simply gather all my clutter onto a single plate. I then create a stack with that plate, while keeping bowls and assorted plates in a separate pile. Sauce containers might go into a bowl for organization. I try to arrange the silverware either on the plate or grouped together for easy access when it's time to clean up. Lastly, I make sure to push all the drink cups to the edge of the table where the server placed them."

TikTok users respond

Users of the app praised the TikToker for their insightful analysis of restaurant patrons.

"I'm definitely in favor of option one, but it's still your responsibility, haha," wrote one user. Based on the replies to the post, it appeared that the majority supported table one.

One more commenter mentioned that as a member of camp No. 1, they feel the need to compensate for their partner's disorganization after meals. “I’m diner #1, and my spouse is diner #2,” they shared. “Whenever she joins me, I always ensure we tidy up the table before departing. She finds it odd, but I simply enjoy being polite.”

Another person proclaimed, "I am the original table, forever."

@vegangirl1987 There’s always two types of groups. #servertok #texasroadhouse #bekind #fypppp ♬ original sound – Vegangirl1987

A TikTok user, who claimed to have experience in the food service sector, expressed their opinion on the best table choice. "As a former hostess and busser, I can confidently say Table 1 is the way to go!" they commented.

Another person said that this diner quirk directly correlates with a popular internet ethics theory: “The people arguing against this are the same people that don’t return their shopping carts.”

The Daily Dot has contacted Texas Roadhouse through email and also left a comment on TikTok for @vegangirl1987 to gather more details.