Alfonso Rios, Cesar Cantu & Carlos Melchor at La Tramoya

What makes a good waiter the best waiter? It’s that “extra everything” that makes you remember the service more than the food, that takes your dining experience from “OK” to “exceptional.” You all - dedicated diners that you are - apparently agree, and from a list of many contenders for 2010 Best Waiter, this team of three was the clear, obvious (and might we add, well-deserved) winner.

At La Tramoya in the Plaza Machado, from early morning to late at night, you’ll find this “Terrific Trio,” together or separately, running the show at this cozy Italian restaurant in the Plaza Machado. Always smiling, Alfonso Ríos, César Octavio Cantú and Juan Carlos Melchor (left to right) have almost innumerable (hah!) years between them of working at La Tramoya, and their familiarity with not just the menu and drink offerings, but more importantly, with taking care of customers, is evident immediately.

Case in point: Pressed for time, heading to a show at the theater? No problem; let them know and your order will be ready muy pronto. Or, want to just sit with a glass of wine and relax? Todo bien, too. Big groups, impromptu parties, special diets – it’s all OK here, all “service with a smile,” and then some. And y’know, these guys seem to always be smiling, greeting people by name, just having a good ol’ time. (Oh that all our jobs could be so enjoyable, eh?!) Alfonso, Cesar and Carlos make you feel like you’re part of one big happy family. And don’t be surprised when they remember what you drink, what you’re most likely to order or what you ordered last time. One more thing: Cesár has been known to give impromptu Spanish lessons and he makes you feel good for just trying. This terrific trio of waiters take their jobs seriously - and themselves lightly. – Maureen Geraghty, JB