At some point in your life you will be out of work.  When this happens and you find yourself interviewing for a job, be honest as to why you are out of work, especially if you were let go for cause.   With today’s technology, companies can easily find out why you were let go.   While HR won’t talk, chances are the host who answers the phone in your old restaurant will.  Be honest, take responsibility for your actions,  tell the interviewer what you learned from your experience and sound remorseful.  Finally, Make sure that you let the interviewer know that you learned your lesson the hard way and it will never happen again.   At this point move on.

There are some companies, such as Darden, that will end the interview right there.  Many, however, will appreciate not only your honesty but your ability to learn.