Pros
Darden does a good job of asking employees if things are running well in the restaurants, and if they aren't changes can be made from the top. The insurance was awesome, the mobility was great. If I wanted to move across the country, a phone call from my GM to my destination would have been enough for a transfer. I took advantage of the opportunity to be a trainer, but did not stick around for management. I served and bartended my way through 3 college degrees, and don't regret the time I spent there. Discounts were offered on food, gift cards, and outside services through partners. Training was comprehensive. I got to try new food and drinks at every menu change.
Cons
Major con was working nights, weekends, holidays, etc. I got called in a lot when others didn't show up. Uniforms changed a couple of times during my employment. Working with guests can sometimes be a challenge, not everyone who goes out to eat is having a great day. The loss of gratuity on large parties has hurt some servers, but there is still a potential for great money if you provide great service.