Viral TikTok By Server Highlights Differences Between Boomers And Gen-Z In Restaurant Table Etiquette

So very different

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• August 19, 2023

The generational divide among Boomers, millennials, and Gen Z seems to persist and even intensify, even in the face of a rising pandemic. At a time when global concerns might take precedence, we find ourselves drawn to these seemingly minor disagreements.

Perhaps it's these smaller disagreements that keep us motivated and engaged in times of crisis. For millennials and Gen Zers, the stereotype persists that Boomers are disconnected and overbearing, placing more importance on formality and manners than the substance of what is being communicated.

Conversely, Boomers often view those under 40 as naive to the realities of life, adhering to outdated methods such as hand-delivering resumes in a digital age. These misunderstandings and stereotypes fuel an ongoing tension that seems to be a vital part of our social interactions.

Enter Kaitlyn Brande, an 18-year-old server and a member of the Gen Z generation. Her perspective adds fresh and unique insight into this ongoing generational debate.

Brande's recent viral TikTok video, showcasing tables in the restaurant where she works, has become a symbol of this battle. By focusing on something as simple as the way different generations leave their tables at a restaurant, she has brought attention to the subtle, everyday manifestations of these broader generational divides.

This moment, captured by Brande, may appear trivial, but it serves as a reminder of how these generational misunderstandings permeate even the most mundane aspects of our lives. It's a reflection of how we relate to one another and how our perceptions are shaped by our ages and experiences.

In this way, the viral TikTok video becomes more than a fleeting social media sensation; it's a snapshot of an ongoing dialogue that continues to shape our culture and interactions.

We have our differences...

Kaitlyn Brande, a server, ignited further debate by sharing a viral TikTok video featuring tables at the restaurant where she's employed. She is 18, so she is a part of the Generation Z

In her brief TikTok video, she displays a table she claims was used by five Boomers, mentioning that she had already cleaned up somewhat while they were dining. The table is in complete disarray:

Next, she presents the adjacent table, where she claims six Gen Zers were seated. Everything is orderly arranged and positioned for her to easily gather and clean up:

Watch the video:

“I posted it because I thought it was ironic since older people always expect respect,” Brande says. I’m not saying I expect people to ever stack their plates like that, because hey, I’m a person too.

I want to go out and eat and not worry about the dishes or anything. All I’m saying is it was cool and helpful of the younger people, and I appreciated it.”

Anyone who has worked in the service industry, regardless of their age, understands the importance of being a considerate and thoughtful guest. Dining out doesn't grant the liberty to treat the surroundings and servers indiscriminately.

Perhaps none of those from the older generation had previous experience working in a restaurant. But isn't this the generation often associated with emphasizing politeness?

Damjan