I've always felt that the stereotype of the rude French was absolute bull***t. Sure, I've had bad service in France, I've also met random unpleasant people - same as everywhere else.  I think these myths are kept alive because anytime people experience anything that fits them, they instantly see it as confirming the bias, while ignoring what doesn't. Same goes for the idea of the rude New Yorker. (Though a handful of places deliberately cultivate the stereotype, e.g. some of the classic delis like Katz's). One difference between NY and most other places is that waitstaff in mid level places tend to be students and struggling creative types. (Low level ones have illegals, high level ones professional waiters - rarely waitresses - who make very good money)