You are the first and last person guests see at a restaurant.You have to be alert, attentive and efficient because of this.Keeping the restaurant orderly, making sure guests are happy, and keeping track of what's going on at each table are some of the ways you can keep guests happy.
Step 1: Before your shift starts, make sure you have everything you need.
You should have everything you need to make notes at your host stand.If you need something, ask your manager to bring it to you.Make sure there is plenty of clean silverware available.
Step 2: Keep a record of each section.
You can make a chart of the table layout.Keep track of how many tables are in each section and when each party arrived.You can assign new tables to the server with the most open tables.If your restaurant takes reservations, be sure to include them in your seating chart.
Step 3: Talk to your server.
If a server is overwhelmed with just 2 tables or if they can handle another one, you need to know.Talk to your server to find out what they can handle.You are all working on the same team.If you can, ask the server if they're ready for another table.If you have a large party, you can ask the server if they are comfortable handling large groups.
Step 4: Track the tables by walking the floor.
You might lose track of who is left during a busy dinner shift.If that is the case, you should ask someone to watch your host stand and walk the floor with your seating chart.There are tables that are actually free if you look for them.The server in that section will probably be ready for a new table soon, so you can check to see which customers have moved on to dessert.
Step 5: When necessary, help to clear and set tables.
When you are needed, you should be willing to lend a helping hand, even though you won't be expected to bus and set tables as part of your job description.Put down tables, silverware, and chairs when you aren't doing anything else.
Step 6: Guests are welcomed to the restaurant with a smile.
When new guests arrive, make sure you are aware.If they are repeat customers, greet them warmly.If there is a wait, let guests know so they can make other plans.Say something like "I'll be right with you!" if you're busy with another guest and acknowledge the new arrival with a smile.
Step 7: Ask how many people are at the party.
Don't assume that because 2 people walk in, they will be the only ones in the party.The rest of the group might not have joined them yet.If you ask, you will know what size table your guests need.
Step 8: Ask customers if they like sitting down.
Guests with a larger frame might not be comfortable squeezed into a small booth, and customers who have trouble walking might prefer a seat close to the door.Don't be afraid to ask your customers what type of seating they prefer, but make your best judgement call.
Step 9: Don't wait to answer the phone.
The host of a restaurant usually answers the phone.You should answer the phone quickly and professionally.Ask the caller how you can help them and state the restaurant's name.If you are busy, ask if you can put them on hold.
Step 10: Even if the restaurant gets busy, maintain your composure.
When the dinner rush hits, it can be hard to stay calm and composed, but if you get flustered, the whole restaurant could become disorganized.Even the busiest dinner service will be over in a couple of hours if you feel stressed.
Step 11: Your guests should be shown to their table.
Do not walk faster than your customers.If you walk ahead of them, you'll be able to get them to sit at the table you want.Before the customers sit down, ask if the table is okay.
Step 12: If you have had to wait long, apologize to your customers.
If you don't have a reservation, most customers expect to wait at least 10 minutes to be seated.If your guests have been waiting a long time, you should show them to their table and apologize.If you want to give them a free drink or appetizer, ask the management if you can.
Step 13: Guests should be seated comfortably.
Guests should be seated at a table that is not directly next to another full table if the restaurant is slow.If the restaurant is busy, guests will have to sit near other diners, but try to make sure they have enough space to be comfortable.
Step 14: There are rotating stations.
All of your server will be able to make money if guests are seated in rotating sections.Keeping the server from becoming overwhelmed by getting several tables at the same time is one of the benefits of rotating stations.
Step 15: At the place setting, place a menu and silverware for each guest.
You don't want to put all of the menu on a table.Make sure your guests are seated before you leave the table by laying a menu and silverware at each place setting.Guests should be prepared to get water or other small items.Inform them that their server will be right with them if they request more than that.
Step 16: Speak to guests when they leave.
Offer a friendly farewell to guests as they walk out the door, because you are the last person they will have contact with.They will leave feeling good about their dining experience.