An expert waiter is a combination of a gymnast and a poet. They are fast talkers with fancy footwork and a steel-trap memory. In London, about 50 professional servers gather annually to compete in a unique event – the waiters’ race through the bustling streets of Soho.
This race is not just about speed; it’s a display of panache, style, and an essential quality known as “waiterliness.” The organizer, Takashi O’Rourke, emphasizes the importance of both speed and grace in this competition.
The participants must navigate a course lined with cheering crowds while showcasing their waiterly attire. Carrying a tray loaded with an ashtray, a napkin, a wine glass, and a bottle of fizz, the waiters must demonstrate their agility and balance.
One unique challenge of the race is the requirement to carry the tray with one hand only, adding an extra layer of skill to the competition. The rules stipulate that this race is a test of a waiter’s overall abilities, not just their running speed.
Since the mid-1950s, a version of this competition has been a beloved tradition in London, bringing together waiters from various establishments to showcase their talents in a fun and exciting event.
