If I am a server in a resto, what is the appropriate timing in between seating and menu placement etc.?

Question

I'm looking to hear back on timing, I have issues training my staff in knowing how to time out from seating to taking the order to cashing out. If some one has some kind of information as to a standard or just common knowledge in this area, all will be helpful.

Answer 1

I have worked in a restaurant for a year now and when our customers are seated they are given a menu. Since we are supposed to be alert of our dining room section at all times, I allow no more than a minute to go by before approaching the table to introduce myself and take drink orders. This way they can take off their coats, get settled and have a chance to glance at the menu. After bringing their drink orders back I give them between 2 and 4 minutes (always watching to see if they have decided before my time limit is up) before returning to take their orders. In relation to cashing out orders, when most of the table is done eating, I return to clear and plates, offer desserts/coffee, and ask how they would like their check split. I immediately (after dropping the dishes in the back) print up there check. I wait no longer than 2 minutes before returning and cashing out their orders. I hope this wasn't too drawn out and was helpful.

Answer 2

i hope this would help you: the menus should be presented right away at the sitting moment, then is approx. up to 2 minutes to check the menu when the server shows up present himself, tell the specials and ask for drink orders, 45 seconds ford drinks is the standard sometimes up to minute but u have to remember for the guest every second is like minutes and minutes is like hours,after its another two to three minutes to let them decided and take the order(if the guest is not one of those people that likes to talk half hour before ordering). The order should be put in the computer in less than 1:30 for parties up to10 or less if its just two or four you should expect a clean 45 seconds to minute and dependence of how many courses they having. food should not take more than 20 to 25 minutes for a well done steak. after putting down the food the important question: There is anything else i can get for u right now? then leave, after one minute or tow bites.. server should be back to ask if everything is OK wether the steak was done right or the meal is hot, etc.... Those are average of the standards of two of the biggest restaurant chains n America, If u looking for something more elegant and classy i think you should add some time to each step.

Answer 3

I've always had menus placed as the customers sat down, and when the water's delivered, ask for drinks or appetizers. Mention the specials and say you'll be back with the appetizer. (Put that order in) Go back with the drinks and take order.and drop off appetizer plates. Bring bread or salad quickly. Bring appetizer. Clear plates if needed before the entrees come out. Refill as needed. Check back once or twice, but not too much.

My restaurant would run about 45 min for an avg visit. Quicker for slow nights, maybe an hour for a busy night. That's all from walking in to leaving.

If you have more questions, feel free to email me!

Answer 4

I prefer the Menu Already placed on empty table, one per seat... let it be extra...
The waiter should seat the guests, and bring the basic stuff, like water/glass/bread,, the people can be ready with the order (in between these errands)... If they are late orderers', he can stand and wait at the podium... should be like 5 min... time
For bills, he should wait till ALL of the guests at the table are done... then approach politely and ask if he can provide anything else... should be like ten min time - let the guests relax a bit, if they are in a hurry, they will call/summon for bill...

Answer 5

If I don't get my menu when I sit down I would say five minutes top. In fact when I am seated at a restraunt if I don't see a thing of my server after 5 or so minutes I start to get annoyed. And when I haven't decided yet and server says they will give me a few minutes, I'd like it to be a FEW minutes not 10.

Answer 6

My wife works in a restaurant in a casino here in Nevada, and they place the menus on the table as the customers take their seats. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.

Answer 7

I would say immediately. That way, by the next time you come back they should have their drink orders ready. Possibly appetizers as well.

Answer 8

60 seconds, then give them lots of time to decide