How to Prioritize Tables As a Restaurant Server

Serving tables in a restaurant can be a stressful and challenging job. Maintaining a cheerful disposition while prioritizing tables is a balancing act that can take some time to master. Servers must come up with their own personal system of serving. Efficiency and organization are key in the restaurant industry for keeping customers happy. Learning how to prioritize tables is a technique that requires experience and paying attention to detail.

Instructions

1

Familiarize yourself with your designated section. At the beginning of your shift you will typically be assigned one section of the restaurant to serve. Do a walk-through of your area and anticipate any problems you may have with timing.

2

Maintain constant communication with hosts and support staff. Most restaurants will have a host seat your tables for you rotating between the other servers. Request that certain tables be seated first to help you prioritize your tables and ensure a constant flow of service.

3

Communicate with your customers as they are seated. Ask your guests questions that will determine their level of priority. For example, if one of your tables needs to be finished their meal at a certain time, you will need to accommodate them accordingly. Recommend menu items that will take less time to cook and communicate the needs of the table to kitchen staff. Tables with time restraints are first priority.

4

Serve tables with young children prior to those with only adults. Because children have less patience and can become disruptive, it is important to serve them first. Bringing food to kids first will not only keep the kids happy but will score points with the parents.

5

Read the tolerance level of your tables. Gauge the patience level of your guests and serve the ones who are relaxed last. Look for body language, interact casually with the table and determine the mood of the guests.

6

Prioritize your tables as they are seated. As much as possible, adhere to the first come, first served rule. If your tables have no other pressing needs attend to the tables in order of seating.