What should a server complete at the end of their shift?

At the end of their shift, a server should complete closing duties including cleaning to ensure that the workspace is maintained to a high standard. This responsibility not only affects the efficiency of the restaurant but also impacts the dining experience for future guests. Proper closing duties typically involve cleaning tables, resetting the dining area, ensuring that the kitchen and service stations are tidy, and sometimes restocking supplies for the next shift.

By completing these tasks, servers contribute to a positive work environment for their colleagues and help maintain the overall cleanliness and organization of the establishment. This is essential in a busy restaurant like The Cheesecake Factory, where high standards of service and cleanliness are crucial to customer satisfaction.

While cashing out tips is important, it is part of the closing duties rather than the only responsibility. Serving one last table before leaving could disrupt closing operations and prevent necessary cleaning from being done, while leaving without checking in with management does not represent a professional approach to team dynamics and responsibility.