Behind the Scenes in a Restaurant: A Study of 1017 Women Restaurant Employees

''Behind the Scenes in a Restaurant: A Study of 1017 Women Restaurant Employees'' by The Consumers’ League of New York City is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This book explores the working conditions of female employees within the restaurant industry, focusing specifically on their hours, wages, and overall health. The study provides a comprehensive analysis based on interviews conducted with over a thousand women working in various restaurant settings across New York City. The book delves into the realities faced by women in the restaurant workforce, highlighting concerns such as long working hours—often exceeding legal limits—and inadequate pay, which relies heavily on tips. It discusses the demographic profile of these workers, including their age and nationality, with a significant portion being young, foreign-born women. The authors emphasize the physical and moral hazards associated with the demanding nature of restaurant work, asserting the pressing need for legislative reforms that would ensure better working conditions and safeguard the health and rights of these women. The report concludes with specific recommendations for laws to regulate working hours and conditions, aiming to improve not only the individual worker's well-being but also the broader social implications of their labor.