Flexibility, Play, and Privilege in the Front of the House

Abstract

This chapter examines the respective worlds of work in the front and back of the house through the perspectives of those who inhabit each space. Engendered by divergent social memberships and structurally unequal job conditions, the two asymmetrical work cultures in restaurants are explicated in this chapter. Wilson describes how many of the men and women working in the front of the house are able to approach the unpredictable elements of their jobs as “perks.” These perks, such as flexible schedules and lucrative tips, allow them to forge custom-fit work lives.