Restaurant Service Sequence

Guest Arrival

• Host or head waiter greets guests warmly and politely.
• Confirm reservation and escort guests to their table.
• May offer to take coats, bags, or belongings before seating.
• Engage guests in light conversation during the escort.

Seating the Guest

• Assist guest in seating at the table.
• Unfold napkin and place it on the guest’s lap.

Beverage Service

• Waiter introduces himself and asks for water preference.
• Serve selected water, filling glasses to about 3/4 full.
  • Glassware should be placed on the right side of the guest.
• Present beverage menu (wine, cocktails, aperitifs).
• Take drink orders; offer recommendations if needed.
• Serve beverages within 5 minutes of taking the order.

Bread and Butter Service

• Serve bread and butter from the left side of the guest.
• Note: Bread and butter may be served before or after beverages depending on restaurant SOPs.

Food Menu Presentation

• Present food menu after beverages are served.
• Allow guests time to review the menu while enjoying beverages.
• Return to take food orders; note dietary restrictions and special requests.
• Confirm order with guests before leaving the table.

Food Service

• First Course: Serve appetizers or salads.
  • Pre-plated foods from the right side.
  • Platter to plate service from the left side.
• Check in with guests after a few minutes for satisfaction feedback.
• Clear plates from the right side after first course.
• Crumbing: Remove crumbs from the table.

Main Course Service

• Ensure all cutlery and crockery are correct before serving.
• Present main course dish with a brief description.
• Check back with guests after a few minutes.
• Clear plates and utensils after main course from the right.
  • Items on the left cleared from the left side.
  • Offer to refill drinks if running low.

Dessert Service

• Present dessert menu and allow time to review.
• Take dessert orders and serve.
• Some restaurants may offer a digestif menu.
• Option to offer tea/coffee after dessert.

Final Steps

• Clear dessert and finishing drinks discreetly.
• Offer the bill once guests indicate readiness to pay.
• Process payment and return receipt/change, thanking guests warmly.
• Thank guests for dining and offer further assistance.