From the South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Best Waiter

September 21 2005

Les Raye Jr.
Buca di Beppo, 3355 S. University Drive, Davie, 954/577-3287, www.bucadibeppo.com

Les Raye Jr. enjoys waiting tables because he has a flexible schedule, gets paid largely in cash and serves an occasional celebrity such as Vanilla Ice. His favorite part, though, is getting to know ordinary people and making them feel comfortable. At Buca di Beppo, large parties are the norm, and Raye doesn't focus his friendly service only on the person who will be paying the bill. He aims to keep everyone in the party happy, whether that means entertaining kids or joking with a senior couple, asking, "Is this your first date?" He knows the menu well, and his efficiency helps him provide quick service. For example, if diners at a table order a beer here and there, he'll suggest a pitcher, and he'll bring the dessert tray out for them to see while they are waiting for their entrées. That leads to happier customers -- and great tips.