Waiters and bartenders serve food and beverages in commercial dining and drinking places, clubs, institutions and canteens, on board ships and on passenger trains.

Tasks performed usually include: assisting in keeping the bar properly stocked; washing used glassware and cleaning the bar area; serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at a bar; setting tables with clean linen, cutlery, crockery and glassware; serving food and beverages; advising on the choice of wines and serving them; taking orders for food and/or drinks and passing the orders to the kitchen; presenting bills and accepting payment.