As an excellent candidate for a waitress position, you need to convince the hiring manager to read your resume and invite you for an interview. Take advice and suggestions from our professional waitress cover letter sample to create a virtual conversation with the hiring manager about yourself. Your cover letter is the perfect opportunity to set yourself apart from the other applicants. Consulting examples such as the one below is an excellent method to help find ideas for writing your letter. If you’re intimidated at the thought of a blank page, don’t worry. We also have some suggestions to help get you started.
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Waitress Cover Letter Must-Haves
By using a friendly, professional tone and avoiding errors, you can stick to relevant points that will help the hiring manager appreciate why you are the best fit for the position. A successful waitress inspires satisfaction and support from both the customers and the business. Select a few essential job description requirements and emphasize how your background and expertise meets them and makes you the perfect candidate. Consult the professional waitress cover letter sample as a guide to help you create a unique letter, not something that just rephrases your resume. The hiring manager is probably reviewing stacks of cover letters and resumes, so being succinct is essential.
Best Action Verbs for a Waitress Cover Letter
As shown in the professional waitress cover letter sample, make your application viable and exciting by using powerful action words such as adapted, assisted, contributed, cooperated, expedited, helped, motivated, resolved, supplied, and familiarized.
Cover Letter Text
Dear Ms. Johnson,
With demonstrated customer service expertise, proven expertise in the food service industry, and exceptional hospitality acumen, I am confident I will be a valuable addition to the Tierney Restaurant Group. I am an enthusiastic person who is eager to provide excellent food and beverage service to customers and exceed their expectations. I believe that my knowledge of guest relations, hospitality, and food and drinks can considerably strengthen your brand.I am highly skilled in welcoming guests and helping them with table selection, fulfilling orders, communicating with the kitchen staff and bartenders, and satisfying customers promptly. My extensive experience in collecting payments and maintaining sales records has enabled me to help supervise staff and manage food service operations. As an experienced waitress, I have a great familiarity with beverage handling and serving procedures, excellent mathematical skills for calculating cash and making change, and am skilled in keeping service areas clean and tidy.I developed a solid work ethic, expertise in communicating with people of diverse backgrounds, and unique talents to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. I look forward to scheduling an in-person interview at your convenience to discuss my qualifications for the waitress position. My resume is attached for your review. Thank you for your consideration and time. I hope to hear from you soon.
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Professional Waitress Cover Letter Example for 2023
Read for inspiration or use it as a base to improve your own Waitress cover letter. Just replace personal information, company application data and achievements with your own.

Make your waitress cover letter stand out
According to 83% of hiring managers, cover letters are an important part of every recruiter’s decision-making process.
What’s more, 72% of them will expect you to hand in a great cover letter, even if this part is listed as ‘optional’ on the job advert.
And if you ask our experts, cover letters are an amazing opportunity to tell a personal story and make the right first impression.
But what exactly is a cover letter and how to write a good one? Let’s see…

So what’s the difference between a cover letter and a resume?
In short – the resume showcases your achievements and skills, while the cover letter focuses more on your personality and motivations.
Of course, you should mention some of your relevant skills in the cover letter as well. But make sure you’re not repeating your resume word by word.
Now let's move on to the things that make every cover letter great!
Choose the right salutation and craft an introduction that gets you remembered
We advise you to address the cover letter directly to the person responsible for the recruitment process. If you don’t know their name, take some time to research it.
This will show that you’re attentive to detail and are willing to go the extra mile when necessary.
Here's a list of salutations you can never go wrong with. Note that some of them can be used even if you don’t know who the hiring manager is.
- Dear [company name] Recruiter,
- Dear Mr./Ms. Smith,
- Dear Hiring Manager,
- To the [team you're applying for] Team
The introduction is your chance of getting the reader’s attention and giving them a reason to see you as a good fit.
So make sure you highlight your excitement about the company or the industry (or even both!) and the reasons why you’d like to grow in the field.
Avoid using clichés like “I found your job posting on website X and decided to apply”.
Don't skip on your Waitress soft and hard skills
The resume is the place to list all your hard skills. The Waitress cover letter, on the other hand, is the ideal place to emphasize your soft skills and link them to your achievements.
Think about times when your skills have helped you achieve certain goals that seemed too difficult. And don’t worry about admitting some of your weak sides – this is a great way to show recruiters your potential and ability to grow, both professionally and personally.
Looking at the specific job posting requirements could also give you insight on what skills should be included in your resume by all means. This will help you pass applicant tracking systems (ATS) that screen cover letters for keywords before passing them on to recruiters.
Show that you've researched the company
Having a paragraph that shows you’re aware of the company and the issues it faces is always a good idea. It proves your enthusiasm to join the team and makes a great impression.
For bonus points, you could also share how some of your strengths could help resolve company or even industry problems.
Go for an actionable ending
The last part of your cover letter should briefly sum up everything you’ve said so far. It should also express your gratitude for the hiring manager’s time and consideration.
The tone of the closing line depends on two things – your personal preference and the company culture. Don’t go for overly creative phrases if the company you’re applying for relies on strictly corporate language.
Traditional lines such as “Looking forward to your reply” are usually considered a safe bet. So when in doubt, stick to them.

Cover letter examples by industry
- Food Service
- Hospitality
- Restaurant Manager
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Land a job interview by pairing your Waitress cover letter with a great resume
Matching your cover letter with an equally good resume will without a doubt put you in front of other applicants.
Check out our Waitress resume writing tips or talk to an expert for some valuable tips and guidance.

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Waitress Cover Letter Example
Get the job you've always wanted and find inspiration for your new cover letter with our free, downloadable Waitress cover letter example. Copy and paste this cover letter sample at no cost or revise it in our job-landing cover letter maker.

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Waitress Cover Letter Example (Full Text Version)
Bernadette Grandis
Dear Restaurant Manager,
As a waitress with 3 years of experience in restaurants and cafes, I apply with enthusiasm for this opportunity.
I am currently a server at La Maer Restaurant, where I serve seafood and beverages in a 60-seat setting, ensuring exceptional service by creating memorable experiences with cheerfulness, pride, and passion. Before this, I was a waitress at the upscale Sandino Bistro & Cafe, where I served in the dining room and the busy casual patio.
I have a great reputation for awesome customer service, and for being an active listener who confidently takes on daily challenges with a positive attitude. I have loved every minute of my time at La Maer and enjoyed the many friendly relationships I developed with our customers. As the restaurant will undergo extensive renovations over the next few months, the establishment will close until further notice. I am eager to find another stimulating opportunity with a similarly dynamic restaurant that I can take pride in working for.
Please find attached my resume for your consideration. I confirm that I am available for weekend brunch and daily breakfast shifts, as well as evenings.
Thank you very much for your time. I look forward to hearing from you regarding next steps.
Yours faithfully,
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Waiter Housekeeping Chef Food Preparation Animator Bartender Concierge Hotel Manager Restaurant Manager
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Waitress Cover Letter Examples
Waitresses work in the food service industry, and their primary responsibility is to take care of the patrons of a restaurant. This involves everything from seating the patrons to handling their complaints and concerns, as well as placing their food orders and bringing them their meals. Waitresses also process the patrons’ payments at the end of the meal.
When applying for a Waitress position, the candidate should include a cover letter that lists the qualifications that she believes make her a good fit for the position. Prior food service or customer service experience is a plus, and because the job is people-oriented, listing personality traits that make a candidate appear more personable is an effective way of securing that job interview.
Not exactly what you are looking for? Check our complete library of over 1000 cover letter examples .
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Below is a sample cover letter that details some of the responsibilities that a good candidate for a Waitress position would highlight. Also, be sure to check out our extensive Waitress Resumes .
Improve your chances of getting noticed with a powerful cover letter. Take a look at our guide to create the best cover letter in 2023 .
Include These Waitress Skills
- Take food and drink orders for customers
- Clean tables and restock supplies as needed
- Make recommendations to patrons based on their dietary needs and/or restrictions
Dear Mr. Paul Anderson:
I am writing to apply for the position of Head Server advertised in the New York Post for your restaurant Les Hailles. I offer your team over 5 years of experience serving customers in top NYC restaurants with excellent commendations. I am a college graduate with aspirations of attending culinary school in the future.
My reputation for delivering superior, customer focused service is unsurpassed. I believe my passion for food and knowledge of your restaurant’s brand and menu make me a unique and perfect fit for this position. I offer excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic. I have strong knowledge of food & wine pairings and the ability to offer your patrons more than just a wonderful meal, I can offer them a wonderful experience as well.
I have experience working in high pressure environments, including nights and weekends. I’m reliable, focused, and work well with teams of all sizes. For a more detailed presentation of my skills and background, please review the enclosed CV and feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience. Thank you in advance for your consideration. I look forward to our conversation.
Sarah Johnson
A professional cover letter is the first step toward your new job!

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![best application letter for waitress Cover Letter for a Waitress: Sample [+ No Experience]](https://cdn-images.zety.com/pages/waitress_cover_letter_example_zety_3.jpg)
- Cover Letter Examples
Cover Letter for a Waitress: Sample [+ No Experience]
Everyone wishes they could get wait staff as good as you whenever they go out. We’ll show you how to write a cover letter for a waitress so good, you’ll make tips off that, too.

As seen in:
If you want to work in the food service industry, this guide is for you.
You’ll learn exactly how to write a great cover letter, no matter if you’re a seasoned veteran or if you’re writing a waitress cover letter with no experience.
Bear in mind, you’re in for a job in a fast-paced environment. You’ll quickly fall behind if you’re unable to provide great customer service, think on your feet, and multitask for extended periods of time during evening rush hours.
Do all of the above, however, and you’ll see the tips rolling in fast.
But you still need to land the job in the first place.
So, if you’re tired of waiting on hiring managers who keep ghosting you, it might be time to take a deep, hard look at how you write your cover letters (I hope you are writing multiple letters, not just copy-pasting the same one over and over).
Keep reading to learn how you can create a waitress cover letter! We’ve provided a sample cover letter for waiting jobs, as well as lots of recommended advice.
Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from 20+ professional cover letter templates that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.
Create your cover letter now

Waitress Cover Letter for a Resume— See more cover letter templates and create your cover letter here .
Check out the links below if you’re on the hunt for a different job:
- Server Cover Letter Examples
- Restaurant Cover Letter Examples
- Hospitality Cover Letter Examples
- Barista Cover Letter Examples
- Cashier Cover Letter Examples
- Bartender Cover Letter Examples
- Retail Cover Letter Examples
- Front Desk Cover Letter Examples
- Receptionist Cover Letter Examples
- Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
- Flight Attendant Cover Letter Examples
- Entry-Level Cover Letter Examples
Want to explore your options further? See our full selection of cover letter examples for every career: Best Cover Letter Examples
Waitress Cover Letter Example
Barbara Preston
1835 Little Acres Lane
Casey, IL 62420
217-932-4834
[email protected]
Linkedin.com/in/barbarahpreston
Restaurant Manager
Cute Cuisine
1647 Jail Drive
Bradford, IL 61421
Dear Mr. View,
I was thrilled to see the job opening for a waiting position at Cute Cuisine. During my seasonal employment at Foodena last summer, the restaurant saw its profits increase by 15% compared to the previous year—a feat I was partially given credit for by the staff manager. I’d be honored to apply my customer service experience and excellent communication skills towards maximizing Cute Cuisine’s profits and driving client satisfaction.
As I understand it, the qualities you value most in your waiting staff are attention to detail and people skills. I’m happy to report that each of my previous employers highlighted my diligence in performing my duties—the 4 flawless recommendations (some of which you will find attached) prove I consistently provide the highest standard of service. I’m confident my interpersonal skills, backed by my 6 employee of the month certificates, could help to shower Cute Cuisine with even more praise from its patrons than it already receives.
It would be wonderful to contribute to the success of a business that reflects my own values so closely. I wholeheartedly believe your restaurant provides the best service in our community (the deserts are quite literally out of this world!), and the personal, warm way with which customers are greeted is exactly the standard every restaurant should aim for.
I’d love to discuss in more detail how my communication skills and dependability can help to build up Cute Cuisine’s client base and elevate your restaurant’s reputation even higher.
Best regards,
Barbara Preston, Waitress
That’s a cover letter example worthy of a 20% tip, at least.
Consider brushing up your resume writing skills, too. Check out this guide: Waitress Resume Sample .
Cover Letter for a Waitress: Template
This is how you write a 5-star waitress cover letter:
1. Choose a Professional Waitress Cover Letter Format
You wouldn’t show your patrons to a mucky table. Studies show that according to restaurant goers, food quality comes secondary to good service. Apply that same principle to your cover letter before sending it to the recruiter and make sure your cover letter layout is spotless!
Here’s how to format your cover letter :
- Divide your cover letter into clear parts .
- Choose a professional cover letter font , like Cambria or Garamond, at 11 or 12 pt.
- Utilize white space to your advantage by using the recommended cover letter spacing : the margins of your cover letter should be set to 1 inch on all sides, and line spacing to either 1 or 1.15.
Read more: Modern Cover Letter Templates
2. Include a Perfect Waitress Cover Letter Heading
A professional manner is the foundation of good restaurant service—and as it happens, it’s just as important for cover letters.
This is why you need to include a crisp cover letter header in your document, like so:
- List your name, job title, and contact information to start with.
- Then, leave a blank line to avoid jumbling information.
- Write down the date of writing the cover letter.
- Skip a line one more time.
- Check online to see who your cover letter is most likely going to be read by.
- Put down that person’s name and the contact information of the restaurant or bar you’re applying for.
Read more: What to Include in a Cover Letter: Full List of Key Info
3. Start with a Professional Salutation and a Compelling First Paragraph
Before you jump into writing your introduction, you still need an appropriate cover letter salutation .
Go for the most professional option: Dear + the hiring manager’s surname, e.g. Dear Mr. Smith . It just gets the job done, no need to be ultra-fancy like an expensive date night dinner.
Conversely, you want to avoid the phrase “To whom it may concern” —it’s not personal enough and gives off the wrong impression.
Now—your first paragraph. You want to start strong and impress the reader from the get-go, so make sure to include:
- The position you’re applying for, tailored to the job ad. If they’re looking for a waitress, you’re a waitress. If they’re after a food service professional – you’re that.
- A measurable achievement that immediately shows your value as a potential hire.
- An offer to use your skills to help the restaurant achieve a specific goal.
Read more: How to Start a Cover Letter: Perfect Opening Paragraph Examples
4. Show Why Hiring You Would Be the Right Choice
As claimed by some studies , waiting jobs are at a high risk of automation. That’s why your cover letter needs to make your versatility shine through in as many ways as possible.
So, in the second paragraph of your cover letter, show your understanding of the role and explain how you’re the perfect fit:
- Brainstorm a few of your qualities that would fit the job particularly well, using the job ad as a reference. This is especially important if you don’t have much work experience.
- State what these qualities are while underlining how you would translate your knowledge into the employer’s success. This conveys a strong message that you’re here for them, and not the other way around.
- If you have relevant experience, mention a few professional achievements as proof of your suitability for the job.
5. Convince Them This Job Is Important to You
If you want to give yourself the best chance of getting hired, you need to show the recruiter that you want this specific job more than any other.
Here’s how:
- Do some research to see what differentiates that particular place from its competitors.
- Reference those qualities in your cover letter. That way, the employer will see you’ve got your wits about you and would really make a good fit. For example, you could focus on the restaurant’s values, high level of service, or excellent reviews.
- Emphasize that the job isn’t merely a stepping stone, and that you’re serious about getting hired.
Read more: The Right Cover Letter Length: How Many Words or Pages Should a Cover Letter Be?
6. End Your Cover Letter on an Enticing Offer
Almost done! All you need to do now is to seal the deal with an offer to discuss your skills in more detail. Rather than asking for an interview directly, imply you’re eager to talk about how you can contribute to the business.
Then, in the final sentence of your cover letter, give a call to action where you offer to help the restaurant achieve a specific goal, e.g.: “I’d be glad to show you how my customer service would draw in more customers and keep them coming back”.
Read more: How to Finish a Cover Letter: Best Closing Paragraph Examples & Tips
7. Sign Off on Your Waitress Cover Letter in The Right Way
Finished polishing up your paragraphs? Time to sign your cover letter, send it, and wait for an interview invite!
Here’s how to sign off on your cover letter:
- Repeat your full name and add your job title after a comma.
- Remember to attach cover letter enclosures , if the job advertisement called for any.
All done? Save the file and give it a professional name . For example, if you’re writing a cocktail waitress cover letter and your name is Barbara Smith, you could name your file Barbara_Smith_Cocktail_Waitress_Cover_Letter .
And remember to write a perfect resume to match your cover letter!
When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a professional resume template here for free .

When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and tell you exactly how to make it better.
That’s it! A perfect way to write a great waitress cover letter. Thanks for reading!
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Home Cover Letter Examples Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter
Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter Example
March 22, 2021 | By the Resume Genius Team | Reviewed by Samuel Johns, CPRW
Land more interviews with the help of our downloadable waiter/waitress cover letter example. We also provide cover letter writing tips designed to help service-industry members improve their job prospects.

Not satisfied with this design? Find more options in our collection of cover letter templates .
Additional Examples Similar to a Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter
Waiter/waitress resume, food service cover letter.
- Server Cover Letter
Fast Food Cover Letter
Waiter/waitress cover letter template (text format).
Be sure to format your cover letter correctly to ensure it’s easy to read and looks professional.
[Today’s Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[341 Company Address]
[Company City, State XXXXX]
[(XXX) XXX-XXXX]
[[email protected]]
Dear [Mr./Mrs./Ms.] [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to you with regards to applying to the waitress role I saw on [Website Name]. With over five years of experience providing excellent service to diners at quality establishments, I know that I’m a strong candidate to fill out your team.
While working as a waitress at the Longhorn Grill in Los Angeles, I learned the ins and outs of the industry, including food handling techniques and how to take orders efficiently in a 120+ seat restaurant. I also served as a hostess and waitress at Mike’s Fancy Kitchen, where I was introduced to bussing tables and proper cleaning techniques for maintaining a hygienic dining experience.
My accomplishments include:
- Memorizing Longhorn’s wine stock and the appropriate entrée pairings, leading to daily wine sales averaging $180
- Assisting in the training of 6 new waiters that helped boost the restaurant’s performance
- Implementing new menu introduction strategies, increasing customer purchases of wine by 10% on average
All my experience and skills would make me a great new addition to your establishment. I have attached my resume, which contains a more in-depth look at my experiences and skills. I look forward to hearing from you, and would love to visit your restaurant for an interview. Thank you for your time and consideration.
[Your Name]
Cover Letter Tips for Waiters & Waitresses
Learning how to put together a cover letter for the specific job(s) you want will help you land more interviews.
If you’re great with people and can keep up with the fast pace of a busy restaurant, you have what every restaurant manager seeks in a waiter or waitress.
Prove you’re their ideal candidate by pairing your resume with an exceptional waitress/waiter cover letter.
Follow these three tips to write a service industry cover letter that gets you the job:
1. Highlight waiter/waitress skills
As a waiter/waitress, you’re responsible for setting tables, explaining menu items, and taking orders. So the right balance of hard and soft skills is needed to facilitate a successful dining experience for patrons.
That said, employers will prioritize your soft skills because this is a service-oriented role. For example, people skills and customer service skills are key waitress/waiter skills you should emphasize in your cover letter.
If you don’t have much waiter/waitress experience, you may highlight experience from other client-facing roles to show you can deliver an exceptional customer service experience to patrons.
Here are key waiter/waitress skills to include in your cover letter:
- Communication skills
- Time management skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Active listening
- Memorization
- Attention to detail
- Prioritization
- Sales skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Conflict resolution
- Coordination
- Professional demeanor
- Physical stamina
- Menu knowledge
- Bartending skills
- Health and safety protocols for handling food
- Point of sale (POS) systems
2. Open with a strong introductory paragraph
Working in the service industry has few formal requirements, so it’s a common entry-level position for people seeking part or full-time work.
If you want to ensure your job application catches the attention of the hiring manager, lead with a strong cover letter introduction to explain why you’re the perfect waiter or waitress for the gig.
Here’s how to craft an impressive waiter/waitress cover letter introduction:
- Show your excitement for the job opportunity. Because this is a client-facing job, show employers that you not only have the skills, but also the passion to drive a great dining experience for patrons.
- Take a closer look at the posting to identify job-specific skills. Tailor your cover letter to the job by aligning your talents with what they’re specifically looking for in new hires.
- Lead with an outstanding achievement that touches upon your knack for great service
3. Emphasize your multitasking skills
As a waiter/waitress, you’ll spend most of your time running around to fulfill your customers’ requests. Restaurant managers seek employees who can perform various tasks efficiently while maintaining a friendly and professional demeanor.
In your cover letter, emphasize your multitasking skills to show them you can effectively prioritize your tasks and ensure everything runs smoothly at a busy dining establishment.
For example, talk about your experience ensuring customers had a pleasant dining experience in a 120+ seat restaurant and how you boosted performance by implementing new menu introduction strategies and making appropriate entrée pairings.
Still have a few burning questions? Check out our frequently asked questions for more help, or try building your waitress/waiter cover letter with our cover letter builder .
Additional Waiter/Waitress Cover Letters, Resumes, & CVs:
Cover letters:.
- Hospitality (Hotel Front Desk) Cover Letter
- Hostess Cover Letter
- Housekeeping Cover Letter
- Banquet Server Resume
- Concierge Resume
- Dishwasher Resume
- Fine Dining Resume
- Hospital Housekeeping Resume
- Hospitality (Hotel) Resume
- Hostess Resume
- Housekeeping (No Experience) Resume
- Housekeeping Resume
- Night Auditor Resume
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Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter Examples in 2023
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- Downloadable Examples
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Frank Hackett
Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)
Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for waiters and waitresses was $23,740 in 2020. Although this industry is expected to experience a 20% increase in growth over the next decade, you’ll likely encounter strong competition as you apply for higher-paying positions in upscale establishments. Cover letters are not always required when seeking a serving position, but creating a customized document for the role you’re applying to will speak volumes about who you are as a professional. Going above expectations can make all the difference in making a positive impression and securing the interview. Below, you’ll find cover letter examples for entry-level job seekers and servers with years of industry experience.
Waiter/Waitress Cover Letters
Example #1 Entry-level
Example #2 Mid-career
Example #3 Senior-level
Waiter/Waitress Text-Only Cover Letters
Years of experience.
- Entry-level Entry-level
- Mid-career Mid-career
- Senior-level Senior-level
Anthony Gentile Waiter | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Carpenter Street, Philadelphia PA, 12345
January 1, 2022
Pat Martin Hiring Manager Franko’s Italiano (987) 654-3210 [email protected] ’s.com
Dear Pat Martin,
- As a waiter at Olive Garden, I delivered a high-quality dining experience to guests in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant. Due to the unlimited refills for more than half of the menu items, this position required quick thinking under pressure to ensure guest satisfaction. These experiences have allowed me to develop an advanced understanding of guest relations and time management, which I believe will allow me to thrive in the server position with your restaurant.
Franko’s Italiano has a reputation for the authenticity of its cuisine that resonates with me as a hospitality professional. Having acquired my initial serving experience at a chain restaurant, I am eager for the opportunity to apply my hospitality and service skills in a fine dining establishment. I believe that I can provide valuable contributions to your team based on the following experiences from my career:
- Achieved 120%-150% of sales goals month over month by educating guests on menu items, upselling entrees, and appetizers, and providing recommendations based on guest needs
- Provided quality service to 25-40 guests per day, coordinated with hostesses, servers, and kitchen staff, and supported team members during high volume periods
- Ensured compliance with ServSafe regulations and Covid-19 safety protocols
I would like to schedule an interview to provide more insights into how my experience within the hospitality industry can be an asset to your restaurant. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your earliest convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Best regards, Anthony Gentile
Allison Rosenberg Waitress | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Bedford Avenue, New York, NY, 12345
Mr. Hector Martinez Hiring Manager Empellon (987) 654-3210 [email protected]
Dear Mr. Hector Martinez,
As a waitress at Casa Villa, I provided an exceptional fine dining experience to clientele at an upscale Mexican restaurant. I identified many opportunities to enhance the quality of service for our guests and supported efforts to strengthen collaboration between the front of the house and back of the house staff. I believe that my experience in fine dining and leadership skills will allow me to thrive in the waitress position with your restaurant.
Empellon’s reputation for excellence in its food quality and service standards strongly aligns with my professional background. I believe that I can provide valuable contributions to your team based on the following achievements from my professional career:
- Coordinated with the front of the house, back of the house, and management to improve guest satisfaction metrics from 78% to 92% by enhancing communication protocols and providing training to servers on effective usage of the POS system for custom items
- Upsold menu items and daily specials to guests, provided education on dishes, ingredients, and spice levels, and achieved 130% of monthly sales goals
- Provided training to 15+ new servers on restaurant service standards, daily operations, menu items, and the company POS system
I hope to speak with you further regarding how my experience within fine dining can help your restaurant continue to deliver quality service to your guests. You may contact me for more information on my background at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely, Allison Rosenberg
Skyler Thompson Waitress | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Bridge Street, Boston, MA 12345
Mr. Caleb Morris Hiring Manager The Mariner Restaurant (987) 654-3210 [email protected]
Dear Mr. Morris,
As a waitress with over 10+ years of experience within the hospitality industry, I’ve developed an expertise in fine dining and sales techniques. At The Ocean Wind, I upsold specialty cocktails and gourmet seafood specials to generate over $90K in annual revenue. I worked collaboratively with hostesses, servers, and kitchen staff to improve daily operations and service standards. I am confident that my experience within the restaurant industry would be an asset to your team.
The Mariner Restaurant’s reputation for providing both an exquisite dining atmosphere and upscale seafood is what draws me to apply for this position. I have a strong passion for the hospitality industry, and I believe that I can help your establishment continue to grow this prestigious reputation based on the following accomplishments from my career:
- Delivered high-quality service to 45+ guests per day, upsold high-end seafood entrees and specialty cocktail beverages, generated over $95K in annual sales, achieved guest satisfaction ratings of 90%, and contributed to a five-star Google ranking
- Provided training to 17+ new hires on a complex menu with over 30 items and delivered coaching and mentorship to improve sales and communication skills
- Educated guests on a variety of seafood entrees and cuisine to achieve 150% of sales goals, including oysters, littleneck clams, cherrystone clams, quahogs, lobster, cod, and crawfish
Best regards, Skyler Thompson
Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter Tips
Waiter and waitress positions that require a cover letter are often high-paying opportunities at upscale establishments. To help differentiate yourself from the competition, you need to go the extra mile and permeate your cover letter with accomplishments that will resonate with the hiring manager. This is your first opportunity to make a positive impression on prospective employers. As a server, you’ll want to showcase achievements that emphasize your sales expertise, communication skills, and knowledge of the hospitality industry. Below, you’ll find some expert tips to help you build a winning cover letter:
1. Use Specific Examples to Highlight Your Serving Skills
When detailing your serving skills, you should provide tangible examples of your unique experiences within the restaurant industry. In the example below, the server wants to transition from a chain restaurant to a fine dining establishment. Although they don’t have experience working in an upscale environment, the candidate does provide key details about their time at Olive Garden that showcases their capabilities as a waiter. For example, they included that because many of the menu items are refillable without additional charge, this position can be especially challenging for even an experienced server during peak hours. By providing these insights, the candidate is able to showcase time management skills that are transferable across the hospitality space.
2. Quantify Your Waiter/Waitress Experience
Sales are a crucial aspect of any waiter or waitress position. To capture the hiring manager’s interest, you’ll want to leverage numbers and metrics from throughout your serving career. If you generated substantial revenue, the monetary figure should be prioritized over a percentage. If you aren’t confident that the dollar figure is high enough to impress the reader, you should focus on showcasing how much you exceeded monthly or weekly sales goals. In the example below, the applicant has experience working in a fine dining establishment and effectively showcases their sales and customer service capabilities:
3. Feature Your Leadership Abilities
Your ability to work collaboratively with both front of the house and back of the house staff is valuable to hiring managers within the restaurant industry. Communication breakdowns between servers and kitchen personnel are a frequent cause of operational issues for many establishments, which is why your leadership abilities are important to feature in your cover letter. In the example below, the candidate provides a compelling example of them coordinating with each of these teams to improve food service delivery and communication protocols:
- Coordinated with the front of the house, back of the house, and management to improve guest satisfaction metrics from 78% to 92% by enhancing communication protocols and providing training to servers on effective usage of the POS system for custom items and guest requests
Other Resume & Cover Letter Examples
- Waiter/Waitress Resume Examples
- Server Resume Examples
- Bartender Resume Examples
- Server Cover Letter Examples
- Bartender Cover Letter Examples
Waitress Cover Letter Example

If you’re in need of a summer job, part-time work, quick cash or even a new career, there are few better options than waitressing. These positions allow for flexible or evening hours, on-the-job training and plenty of social interaction. If you're looking for a job like this, an outstanding waitress cover letter is a great place to start.
The best waitressing positions can be quite competitive. You’ll need to show off your relevant experience, top skills and shining personality to catch the hiring manager’s attention and make a great first impression.
Luckily, this doesn’t have to be difficult. A great cover letter can put you miles ahead of other candidates and give you an advantage even if you have little to no work experience.
With Resume.io’s arsenal of tools, samples and writing guides, you’ll be able to create an excellent cover letter for any server position with ease. This guide will:
- Explain the unique role of the cover letter in helping you land your dream job
- Offer free samples to use as models
- Explore writing tips for each of the essential cover letter sections
- Highlight the most important skills for first-time job seekers for wait staff positions
Waitress cover letter general info
If you’re applying for your first summer job or if it’s been a while since you changed positions, it’s a good idea to first understand what exactly a great cover letter entails.
A cover letter is a one-page document, roughly 200 to 400 words, that accompanies your resume to expand on your most relevant experience and explain why you’re an excellent candidate for the position.
As you might have noticed, a resume’s structure is rather rigid. While it’s perfect for conveying dates, names and degrees, it doesn’t offer much to show off your communication skills. That’s where your cover letter comes in.
Also known as an application letter, this document allows you to make a personal connection with an employer and highlight your greatest achievements that might have slipped under the radar on your resume. No wonder a cover letter is one of the most requested application materials.
What if the waitress job description doesn't require a cover letter?
Hiring in the food service industry is quite often an informal affair. Some restaurants even skip the online application process common in other industries and favor emailed or physical applications instead.
You’ll likely run into a situation where an application or hiring manager forgets to mention whether a cover letter is necessary. So should you write one?
While other applicants might think this is an easy way to save themselves some time and effort, they are likely just prolonging their job search. A cover letter is one of the best ways to convince a hiring manager they should take a chance on you – especially if you have no previous connection to the restaurant or no previous waitressing experience.
The small time investment in writing a thoughtful cover letter can pay off big-time when you land your dream position. That’s why, unless a job description asks you NOT to, it’s always a good idea to submit a cover letter with every application.
Secondary purpose
The job search is all about strategy. While there’s no one thing you can do to guarantee success, there are many steps you can take to maximize your chances. Writing a great cover letter is one of them.
That’s because this document allows you to show off what makes you stand apart and convince an employer that you’re the right choice for their restaurant. One of the best ways to do this is with short anecdotes that showcase how you handled challenges on previous jobs.
One of the greatest advantages of waitress positions is that many of the skills can be learned on the job. Even if you have no previous experience, highlighting customer service skills, a personable approach and a strong work ethic can often be enough to catch a hiring manager’s attention.
Before you submit your cover letter, tailor it.
If there’s one tip that can make the difference between a mediocre cover letter and one that leads to a job, it’s this: Make sure to tailor your cover letter to each restaurant you apply to.
Tailoring your cover letter means adjusting it to include the most relevant samples and achievements for each specific position. For example, a fine dining Japanese restaurant might be much more concerned with your attention to detail and presentation than a family-style diner more focused on efficiency and a cheery disposition.
While it might take a few minutes to swap out some of your text, this simple step will pay dividends when the employer notices you’ve taken the time to explain why their restaurant interests you and why you’re the right fit.
Targeting other jobs in the hospitality & catering industry? Check out these other related cover letter samples for more inspiration.
- Hospitality cover letter sample
- Barista cover letter sample
- Restaurant cover letter sample
- Chef cover letter sample
- Cleaning job cover letter sample
- Bartender cover letter sample
- Starbucks cover letter sample
- Server cover letter sample
- Hotel Receptionist cover letter sample
- Travel Agent cover letter sample
- Restaurant Manager cover letter sample
- McDonald's cover letter sample
- Pastry Chef cover letter sample
Waitress application letter format, writing samples
While cover letter content is much more flexible than a resume, that doesn’t make this document completely structureless. In this section, we’ll break down the best cover letter format for most positions and industries.
Here are the key components:
- The cover letter header
- The greeting
- The letter introduction
- The letter body
- The conclusion
- The signature
For more guidance and writing samples, check out our overall guide on cover letters.
Cover letter header
Your cover letter header is one of the best places to grab a hiring manager’s attention and align yourself with the restaurant’s branding. The purpose of this section is twofold. The header’s first job is to identify your document and keep your name, phone number and other contact details right at the restaurant manager’s fingertips.
The second goal of your header is to create attractive formatting that makes your application stand out. Since this is one of the few places you’ll be able to add color and other design flourishes, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on what type of image those choices present.
The goal of this section: Make your name and essential information easy for a hiring manager to spot, and create attractive formatting that presents an appropriate image.
Align document styles
One of the best things you can do to take your application to the next level is to align the document styles of your resume and cover letter. This simple step helps you to create a “personal brand” – a visual stamp that identifies your materials as belonging to you and helps you stand out in the hiring manager’s mind.
Aligning your document styles doesn’t have to be difficult. Resume.io’s variety of resume and cover letter templates can make this process as easy as a few clicks. Plus, you’ll be able to choose from a variety of styles that help you fit in with the restaurant’s image. For examples, fun colors and a bold header font might work great for a trendy taco spot, while a neutral color palette is likely to be appreciated in fine dining establishments.
Cover letter greeting
Your cover letter greeting is a small but powerful element. This is where you’ll have the best chance of making a personal connection by addressing the letter recipient by name. Make sure to choose the greeting that is most appropriate based on your level of familiarity with the employer. “Dear” followed by the correct salutation and the restaurant owner or hiring manager’s last name works well for most formal situations. You may also opt for “Hi” or “Hello” or even a first name if you already have a relationship with your prospective employer.
The goal of this section: Address the restaurant manager or owner by name to create a personal connection and a polite, respectful tone.
Dear Ms. Overton,
The importance of using actual names in greetings
As a waitress, you’re probably already familiar with the power of names. Remembering customers' names and giving them yours can quickly establish a rapport that keeps diners coming in the door. Not every restaurant has that vibe, but those that do use it as an amazing tool for a positive emotional connection that keeps everyone happy.
In fact, the positive effects of using names have been well-documented by science: studies have shown an actual neurochemical response in the brain to reading or hearing our own names. You can also use this tactic to your advantage in your cover letter. By addressing the restaurant manager or owner by name (usually the last name), you show interest in the position and a willingness to go a step further than other candidates. If you don’t know who handles hiring for the restaurant and there’s no way to find out, you still have some options. A collective noun is likely your best choice – “Dear (Restaurant Name) Team” or “Hello (Restaurant Name) Family” could work well, depending on the establishment.
Cover letter introduction
Your cover letter introduction is the place to make a statement – as long as it’s a professional one! This is where you’ll want to make a great first impression with a relevant fact, relatable anecdote or exciting personal statement. You’ll want to show off your sparkling personality right from the start, while making sure to address the most important skills for the job. Remember, restaurant managers are busy people – so make your introduction worth their time.
The goal of this section: Introduce yourself in an attention-grabbing way by using a personal statement, relevant fact or interesting anecdote that leads into the body of your letter.
Working as a waitress at my parents’ Italian restaurant during my teenage years taught me how efficiency and attitude combine to create a warm and authentic dining experience.
Cover letter body
Your cover letter body is the biggest section of your document, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. This is where you’ll dive into all your most relevant achievements, personality traits and the qualities that set you apart. To simplify the writing process, you can divide this section into two parts.
In the first, try using the STAR method to describe a S ituation you faced in the past, the T ask required of you, the A ction you took and the ensuing positive R esult. Make sure to choose examples that are most relevant for the type of restaurant and work you’ll be doing.
In the second section, you can discuss your top skills and possible contributions to the potential position to allow the employer to envision you in the role.
The goal of this section: Use the STAR method to detail your most interesting and relevant experiences and achievements, and discuss your potential contributions to the restaurant you're targeting.
I quickly understood that by being present for the diners I could sense when someone wanted to make a different menu choice, was unsure about their wine selection or just wanted to have a friendly chat. For some, speed and efficiency were paramount, especially at lunchtime, but others wanted a little more interaction in their dining experience. My Italian heritage gives me a naturally warm disposition, something that I know fits in with your core values. I am applying for the part-time waitressing role to complement my hospitality studies, but I am most interested in participating in your renowned training program and learning from some of your award-winning leaders. Hospitality is an industry that is best learned in front of customers, and I hope that my passion and drive to improve will be an asset to you. Thanks to my traditional Italian upbringing, my knowledge of food and wine combinations is unsurpassed, and I may even be able to contribute a little in terms of product knowledge for my colleagues. I am a committed collaborator and know that every employee is part of the “kitchen.” I have been used to working under pressure since I was 14 years old and I always retain a cheerful and calm demeanor, no matter what the situation.
Cover letter conclusion and signature
You’re in the home stretch. All that’s left to do is close out your cover letter in a polite and positive way. A call to action does just that. This sentence expresses your enthusiasm for the position and invites the hiring manager to get in touch. You may also leave your contact information here again.
Then, finish the letter with the appropriate signature. “Best,” “Sincerely” or even “Thank you” can all work well depending on your relationship with the employer.
The goal of this section: Create an effective call to action that encourages a restaurant manager to contact you and close out your letter politely and respectfully.
I would welcome the chance to come and work for a shift or two so that you might be able to see me in action. Talking about being a waitress in an interview is difficult. Letting me show you how I send customers away with a smile on their faces is something else entirely. Sincerely, Chelsea Grant
Cover letter for waitress job with no experience – writing tips
For waitressing positions, there are a few key qualities you’ll want to convey on your cover letter.
- Positive communication skills: A friendly smile and cheery disposition will ensure a pleasant dining experience and plenty of repeat customers. Show off your personality in the tone of your cover letter or with concrete examples of the way your customer service led to increased tips or better reviews for the restaurant.
- Efficiency: Speedy service keeps everyone happy. The quicker food is delivered, the more customers a restaurant can serve in a day. Your cover letter is a great place to show how you take initiative, accurately remember orders and special requests, and work efficiently to improve both the customer experience and the restaurant’s bottom line.
- Attention to detail: As a waitress, you are the authority on the restaurant and its cuisine. That means understanding menu items and being able to quickly describe the soup du jour. You’ll also need to remember custom orders and pay attention to the needs of each table. Your attention to detail keeps customers satisfied but also keeps the restaurant from losing money in terms of food waste.
- Ability to sell: One of the most nuanced parts of serving is mastering the upsell and encouraging customers to order appetizers, drinks and desserts in addition to their main courses. This increases a restaurant’s earnings and – if you’re a tipped employee – yours as well. If you’re new to serving, you won’t be expected to have mastered this yet, but for those with years of experience, this skill can prove invaluable to a potential employer.
How to land a waitress job with no experience
For those without years of experience, a waiter job can be one of the easiest entry-level positions to snag – if you go after your goal with professionalism and determination.
One of the biggest secrets to writing an effective cover letter for any food service position is to answer this simple question: Why do I want to work in this particular restaurant?
While other industries use teams of recruiters and automated systems to filter through hundreds of applications, hiring in restaurants often involves the owner or manager taking the time to read each individual application. On the other end of your cover letter is a real, live person who is genuinely interested to know why you want to work for them.
The best way to answer this question is to be authentic. Go to the restaurant, try the food and notice the aesthetic, the clientele, the menu. Reflect on how and why you’d fit into the picture. Even if you have no experience as a waiter or waitress, your personality traits and transferable skills are valuable.
While you might have to apply to a few restaurants before you land your dream job, just remember this:
According to the National Restaurant Association : 90 percent of restaurant managers started in entry-level positions, as did 80 percent of restaurant owners. One third of all Americans had their first job in a restaurant.
Waitress cover letter format and common mistakes
- Unrelated experiences: Waitressing often makes for great part-time or entry-level work, but you’ll still need a high-quality resume and cover letter to land these positions. Make sure to focus only on experiences that clearly demonstrate transferable skills. These can be paid or volunteer, but they should be relevant to the job you're seeking.
- Unprofessional formatting: Professional formatting immediately sets your application apart and makes a great first impression. On the other hand, sloppy or crowded page design will turn off employers at a glance. Luckily, online tools from Resume.io can make great layouts a breeze.
- Grammar and spelling mistakes: Typos and poor grammar can discourage a restaurant manager from continuing to read your document. These mistakes are easy to avoid, however. Make sure to use spell-check, and ask a friend to proofread your application before you submit.
- Generic cover letters: There’s a million restaurants in the world, so why are you interested in working in this one ? That’s the question your cover letter needs to answer with specific experiences and skills tailored for each restaurant that you apply to. The extra time spent crafting a thoughtful cover letter will pay dividends when it catches the restaurant manager’s attention.
Key takeaways
- Unless a job posting or hiring manager specifically asks you NOT to include a cover letter, you should include one to increase your chances of catching a hiring manager’s attention.
- As an entry-level candidate with no work experience, it’s important to keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page by focusing on just a handful of relevant skills.
- The trusted cover letter structure will help you keep your document organized and make the writing process easier.
- Waitresses with no experience should tailor their application letters to address why they want to work at that particular restaurant.
- Good visuals are just as important as good writing. Simple, clean templates work great for waitressing positions.
Let our powerful, easy-to-use cover letter tools help you win your next job. Land that interview in no time at all!
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Waitress Cover Letter Example
When writing a Waitress cover letter Examples remember to present your relevant work history and skills according to the job you are applying for. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or have been in your career for a few years, exposing your relevant achievements in your cover letter can allow you to stand out and get that job interview.
This cover letter example is a great representation of what a hiring manager is looking for in a Waitress cover letter Examples resume. Feel free to use this example for reference as you create your own cover letter or use this easy cover letter builder that will guide you through every step of your building your cover letter in just a few minutes.
In addition to the Waitress Cover Letter Example, be sure to check out our Waitress Responsibilities and Duties .
Here are Waitress Cover Letter Examples:
Dear Restaurant Manager:
My name is Marianne Love and I have been working as a waitress at Ariel’s Fine Seafood in Orlando, Florida for the past 2 years. It has been my goal for some time now to work at the Flying Fish Cafe at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort.
I enjoy being a waitress and get great satisfaction from giving my customers a meal that is more than just a plate of food. I strive to make my customers’ dining experience be a memory to treasure for years to come. I realize that working at a high end restaurant means that many customers are there for a special occasion or a celebration, and making their event perfect is my top priority.
My rйsumй is attached along with an application and 2 letters of reference. One letter is from the head chef at Ariel’s Fine Seafood and the other letter is from the restaurant’s weekend hostess who can testify to the fact that I have regular customers who request me to be their waitress when they call in to make their dinner reservations. I believe that my personal philosophy of customer service is in line with Disney’s commitment to making every guest’s dining experience a magical one.
I understand the importance of paying close attention to customers who express that they have certain food allergies. I realize that their health could be seriously impacted should they eat food to which they are allergic; therefore I am exceedingly careful with these kinds of situations. I make it a point to know the menu well and to know all major ingredients. If I am not completely certain of the answer to a customer’s question I always take the time to ask the chef.
I hope you will consider me for a job as a waitress at The Flying Fish Cafe. I am happy to come in for an interview and am excited about the possibility of going through one of your world class training programs. Please feel free to contact me on my cell phone at (555)-555-5555 or via email at [email]
Marianne Love
Example 2 -Unadvertised Opening
This waitress cover letter example is from a student who has been accepted to culinary school and is looking for a job as a waitress to help pay for tuition at her school. She has several years’ experience working as a waitress at a family owned restaurant in her community.
My name is Shannon Davis and I have been accepted to start classes this fall at the ABC Culinary Institute. My classes are all during the day and I need to work to help pay for school; therefore I am applying for a job as a waitress at your fine establishment. What better way to begin getting practical culinary experience than to wait tables at one of the best restaurants in town?
Throughout high school I worked as a waitress at The Neighborhood Eatery owned by John and Kathy Norris. A letter of reference from Mr. Norris is attached along with one of your applications and my rйsumй. Along with waiting regular tables during dinner hours I also worked parties that were booked at The Neighborhood Eatery. From children’s birthday parties to corporate awards dinners, I have a great deal of experience skillfully handling very large groups.
I have an excellent memory and have no problem memorizing the ingredients and the cooking processes for all dishes on a menu. I also do an excellent job of learning specials and soups of the day. I know how to subtly but successfully push appetizers and desserts and always pay special attention to customers with food allergy concerns.
I am not one of those waitresses who is constantly texting or talking on the cell phone. I turn off my phone and only check it at breaks. My family knows to call the restaurant directly in the event of an emergency. When I am working, my focus is 100% on the job. If there is ever any downtime, I make the most of it by replenishing silver, linens and condiments and making fresh coffee if necessary.
Please consider my attached application, rйsumй and reference letter when you need to hire a new waitress. I am confident that you would be pleased with my work. Please feel free to contact me on my cell phone at (555)-555-5555 or by email at [email]
Your Signature
Shannon Davis
Example 3 – Response to Job Postings and Classifieds Ads
This waitress cover letter example is from an experienced waitress seeking a position at a family-owned Italian restaurant. The owner of the restaurant where she was working retired and sold the property to a shopping mall leaving her without employment. Along with waiting tables she can sing and play piano.
Dear Mr. Minnelli:
My name is Lisa Salvatore and I was a waitress at The Italian Garden for 3 years until Mr. John Pastorelli recently retired and sold the property to the new mall. I found your ad for a waitress in the Village Voice and am submitting the attached application along with my rйsumй and a letter of reference from Mr. Pastorelli. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to work at Minnelli’s.
I have eaten at your fine establishment on numerous occasions and am familiar with your basic menu and even some of your specials. I am a very attentive waitress always making sure my customers have everything they need and want. I make it a point to know the ingredients in all dishes as well as how each one is prepared so that I can answer customer questions.
I am very patient with and polite to difficult or unhappy customers and recognize when it is time to
involve the manager in a situation. My goal is to make every customer a repeat customer; therefore letting anyone leave the restaurant dissatisfied is unacceptable in my view.
I understand the importance of checking identification on all customers prior to serving alcohol and I know which wines go best with which dishes. I always know which customer ordered which dish and I never ask them what they ordered.
I know that you hire a very high caliber of waitress at your restaurant and that you have high standards and expectations of your staff. I believe that I can provide the kind of service to your customers that you demand, and I hope that you will give me the opportunity to serve your customers at Minnelli’s. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience on my cell phone at (555)-555-5555 or via email at [email]
Respectfully,
Lisa Salvatore
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