As a result of the high turnover and staffing shortages in the restaurant industry since the pandemic, restaurant workers in NYC are experiencing unusually high amounts of bargaining power. Waitstaff and kitchen workers have recently demanded holidays off and weekends off. For many in the hospitality industry, these demands appear absurd and put a strain on restaurant owners. However, amidst the tight labor market, some restaurants have tried to incorporate more flexible work schedules as an alternative benefit to attract and retain talent. These labor dynamics may shift back in favor of restaurant owners though as indications of a recession loom.
See "Tight US labor market gives restaurant workers in NYC leverage to demand more flexible work schedules", Jennifer Gould, New York Post, November 2, 2022