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I am writing this review almost two years after resignation there are no emotional grudges involved. This is my honest, down to earth review as ex-waiter at Spur.
During my time at Spur, I have experienced many things, some of which has permanently altered my perspective regarding their franchise as a whole.
I would often arrive home late after grinding a "double shift" (7:30-21:00) because a co-worker never pitched, or a manager subliminally forces it upon you. There was this ever present "you are expendable" atmosphere looming around managers and the owners so one would feel compelled to abide. Dead on my feet I'd always wonder why I endured such extremities.
Besides the extreme work hours, cleaning duties after each shift, the staff, managers, and even the waiters proved woefully inexperienced or untrained. If any of those divisions felt remotely overwhelmed, the entire restaurant falls apart.
The serving structure proves inefficient. Forcing waiters to run between tables to take orders, the bar to pour their own drinks, as well as the kitchen, grill and texican section.
Although teamwork is mandatory, everyone defaults to a "everyone for themselves" mindset. If you're serving five tables of about six people each, that's your problem.
Now here's the pro's regarding my time at Spur.I've met some extraordinary individuals through working there. Some of which have become close friends, lovers and acquaintances.
During quiet shifts, Spur would often feel serene, tranquil and almost beautiful in some sense.
Through working there, serving a vast array of strangers from a manner of race and creed, my introverted persona was altered to more of an extroverted state.
I also earned a lot of money there. On certain nights I'd walk away with a sum close to 600 rand, even succeeding the amount on rare occasion, but was the money all worth it?
But was it all worth the effort? In retrospective... no. During my final months the constant grind left me in a state of dismay. My health suffered dearly, even resulting in hospitalization at one point. Upon arrival for my shift I'd already long to go home.
Would I recommend applying for a position? It all depends. If you are the kind of individual whom thrives through chaos, won't mind the extremities and are able to sufficiently serve then yes. If anything else, rather seek employment elsewhere.
Through actual blood, sweat and tears I have earned my keep and I can proudly state that I have survived my Spur experience.
