Dining Team Roles and Responsibilities

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Questions and Answers

Who is responsible for welcoming guests to the restaurant?

  • Food Runner/Expo
  • Host (correct)
  • Dining Manager/Supervisor
  • Lead Server/Captain

Who is responsible for entering accurate orders for kitchen staff?

  • Food Runner/Expo
  • Lead Server/Captain
  • Bartender
  • Server (correct)

Who is responsible for communicating any specialty item to the chef?

  • Food Runner/Expo
  • Server
  • Bartender
  • Lead Server/Captain (correct)

Who is responsible for keeping the restaurant stocked?

<p>All partners (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for assembling and bagging to-go orders?

<p>Food Runner/Expo (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the busser in the restaurant?

<p>To greet and water tables, and provide bread for servers (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the core principle of achieving great service in fine dining?

<p>To create an environment of sophistication and warmth (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the guiding principle in responding to guest needs?

<p>Give guests what they want (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct approach to taking orders?

<p>Write down orders to ensure accuracy (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the ultimate goal of great service?

<p>To encourage repeat visits (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you say to greet the party?

<p>Good afternoon/evening, Joan, party of four? (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if guests are at the bar?

<p>Offer to carry drinks or follow up with them after seating (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should you take the beverage order?

<p>Ensure each guest's position is accurately noted for efficient service (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when announcing additions to the menu?

<p>Present menu items from memory with enthusiasm (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after taking the food order?

<p>Inquire about a wine selection (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a guest prefers not to be disturbed?

<p>Move on without wiping that area (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should you present the dessert and spirits menus?

<p>From the guest's right side (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with the dessert mats after clearing dessert?

<p>Leave them on the table (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key to achieving personalized customer experiences in luxury fine dining?

<p>Understanding and anticipating guest desires (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to have a host mindset in the restaurant?

<p>To distinguish between guests and customers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of staff development in hospitality?

<p>Training and motivating staff in hospitality and personalization (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key to delivering an exceptional experience in fine dining?

<p>Identifying and authentically responding to each individual's needs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach to giving feedback?

<p>Adopting a positive approach to encourage improvement (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of personalization in fine dining?

<p>To provide memorable experiences tailored to individual preferences (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of a host's interaction with guests?

<p>To establish a warm, friendly, and professional tone (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be confirmed before sending a ticket to the kitchen?

<p>The guest count and special orders with the proper modifier (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the essence of hospitality in terms of guest experience?

<p>Making guests feel at home (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should wine and champagne glasses be transported to the table?

<p>On a clean metal tray, positioning them at the 9 o'clock spot (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for a host to take note of a guest's seating preferences?

<p>To accommodate guests' requests whenever possible (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with silverware when setting the table for a new course?

<p>Replace the silverware with a new set, ensuring it is suitable for the upcoming course (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an effective way for a host to acknowledge a guest's special occasion?

<p>By providing a personalized greeting or a small gesture (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach to checking back with the table after serving a course?

<p>Frame your inquiry to prompt specific requests, such as 'May I bring anything additional for you at this moment?' (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key responsibility of a captain in the dining room?

<p>To coordinate the service and act as a guest liaison (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should the table be cleared after a course?

<p>Clear from the right side of the guest, using your right hand when feasible (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can a captain do to make a guest feel valued and appreciated?

<p>Remember details from their previous visits (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of a Captain's personalized service?

<p>To create a warm and welcoming atmosphere (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a 'Special Touch' in personalized service?

<p>Arranging a special dessert for a guest's birthday (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can a Captain 'Anticipate Needs' in personalized service?

<p>By refilling drinks and providing additional utensils (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of a Captain 'Remembering Preferences' for frequent visitors?

<p>To create a personalized dining experience (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a Captain's 'Follow-Up' after the meal?

<p>To ask for feedback and thank the guest for their visit (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A Captain's role includes suggesting dishes that align with guests' tastes.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Servers are responsible for observing the pace of guests' meals and adjusting the timing of subsequent courses accordingly.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Sending a personalized thank you note after a guest's visit is a way to elevate the service from basic to extraordinary.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Servers are responsible for taking note of guests' preferences and dietary restrictions for future visits.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Captains do not engage in genuine conversation with guests to learn about their interests and preferences.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Servers do not provide personalized recommendations based on guests' preferences and dietary restrictions.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Captains do not anticipate guests' needs before they arise, such as refilling drinks or providing additional utensils.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Servers are not responsible for customizing orders to fulfill guests' special requests or modifications to dishes.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Captains do not follow up with guests after the meal to ensure they had a satisfactory experience.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Servers are not responsible for ensuring that each aspect of the dining experience is executed with precision and attention to detail.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Captains should _______________ guests' needs before they arise, whether it's refilling drinks, providing additional utensils, or offering assistance with menu choices.

<p>anticipate</p> Signup and view all the answers

Servers should engage in genuine conversation with guests, taking the time to learn about their _______________ and preferences.

<p>interests</p> Signup and view all the answers

Captains can note guests' _______________ in the restaurant's database for future visits, including preferred seating arrangements, favorite dishes, or beverage choices.

<p>preferences</p> Signup and view all the answers

Servers can offer insights into the menu, such as the chef's _______________ or the origins of certain ingredients, to enhance the dining experience and demonstrate expertise.

<p>specialties</p> Signup and view all the answers

Captains can elevate the service from basic to extraordinary by sending a personalized _______________ note after a guest's visit.

<p>thank you</p> Signup and view all the answers

Servers should pay attention to cues about guests' _______________, interests, and dining habits to establish a connection.

<p>preferences</p> Signup and view all the answers

Captains should adjust the _______________ of subsequent courses accordingly, based on the pace at which guests are enjoying their meal.

<p>timing</p> Signup and view all the answers

Servers should strive to fulfill guests' _______________ by being flexible in accommodating special requests or modifications to dishes.

<p>preferences</p> Signup and view all the answers

Captains can provide personalized touches to the table setting or presentation of dishes to elevate the dining experience and create a warm and welcoming _______________.

<p>atmosphere</p> Signup and view all the answers

Captains can follow up with guests after the meal to ensure they had a _______________ experience, asking for feedback and thanking them for their visit.

<p>satisfactory</p> Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

High-Level Integration of Roles & Responsibilities

  • Each partner of the dining team plays a vital role in delivering exceptional service to guests.
  • Collaboration and support among the team ensure seamless service delivery.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Dining Manager/Supervisor:
    • Assures exceptional experience for guests
    • Handles resident conflicts
    • Provides feedback to partners
  • Host:
    • Welcomes guests to the restaurant
    • Creates floor plans for servers
    • Communicates visit notes
    • Assists as needed
  • Bartender:
    • Makes accurate drink orders
    • Stocks bus bins neatly
    • Enters accurate orders
    • Keeps the restaurant stocked
  • Lead Server/Captain:
    • Acts as guest liaison
    • Role-models elevated service
    • Communicates specialty items to the chef
    • Enters accurate orders
  • Server:
    • Enters accurate orders
    • Communicates specialty items to the chef
    • Assists with seating tables
    • Keeps the restaurant stocked
  • Food Runner/Expo:
    • Assembles and bags to-go orders
    • Accurately delivers food to tables
    • Keeps the restaurant stocked
    • Liaisons between the chef and FOH team
  • Busser:
    • Greets and waters tables
    • Provides bread for tables
    • Pre-busses tables
    • Resets tables

Advanced Dining Room Etiquette

  • Great service hinges on the perception of being well-treated.
  • Fine dining service focuses on creating moments that elevate guests to a state of culinary bliss and unmatched hospitality.
  • Key principles:
    • The guest is always right.
    • Embrace positivity and personability.
    • Treat guests as you would in your own home.
    • Maintain eye contact and smile.
    • Aim beyond mere satisfaction.
    • Value all feedback.
    • Prioritize accommodation.
    • Keep personal issues away from guests.

Sequence of Service: Detailed & Explained

  • Preparation:
    • Confirm with the host: party's name, size, and special considerations.
    • Gather details if guests are away from the podium.
  • Approach:
    • Greet the party with a pleasant greeting.
    • Convey readiness to guide them to their table.
  • Bar Coordination:
    • Offer to carry drinks or follow up with guests.
    • Confirm if they wish to transfer the bar tab.
  • Journey to the Table:
    • Lead the party to their table at a considerate pace.
    • Assist with seating by managing booth tables and chairs.
  • Greeting the Table:
    • Promptly acknowledge new guests within two minutes of seating.
    • Engage with a warm greeting, maintaining eye contact.

Fine Tuning the Details

  • Pre-setting Glassware:
    • Ensure correct glassware and wine coasters are pre-set at the table.
  • Marking Silverware:
    • Use the correct silverware for each course.
    • Never compromise the integrity of a set table by borrowing silverware.
  • Checking Back with the Table:
    • Within 2-minutes or two bites from serving any course, discreetly return to the table.
    • Frame your inquiry to prompt specific requests.

Maintaining Table Elegance

  • Clearing the Table:
    • Wait until all guests have finished before beginning to clear.
    • Clear from the guest's right side, using your right hand when feasible.
  • Clearing the Entrée:
    • Remove all dinnerware, including side plates and placemats (if applicable).
    • Collect all silverware and any empty glassware to de-clutter the table.
  • Wiping the Table:
    • Once the table is cleared, wipe from the right side with the crumber.
    • Collect crumbs efficiently by sweeping them outward, depositing them into a clean plate.

Finishing Touches

  • Presenting the Dessert and Dessert Wine Menus:
    • After the main course has been cleared and the table refreshed, present the dessert and spirits menus.
    • Place the dessert menu at the center of each setting.
  • Clearing Dessert:
    • Follow the established clearing procedures, removing dessert plates only after all guests have concluded their dessert course.
  • Presenting the Check:
    • At dinner, the check presentation is prompted solely by the guest's request, barring specific direction from management.
    • Ensure accuracy in all charges, including bar transfers, promotional deletions, and corkage as per management's directives.

Personalized Experiences

  • Hospitality:
    • Aim to make guests feel at home with every interaction.
  • Personalization:
    • Customize experiences to individual guest preferences for memorable moments.
  • Communication:
    • Employ effective, empathetic communication to build trust.
  • Staff Development:
    • Focus on training and motivating staff in hospitality and personalization.
  • Technology:
    • Use technology to anticipate and meet guest needs.
  • Feedback:
    • Continuously improve through feedback, enhancing service and satisfaction.### Personalized Experiences
  • Giving feedback should never involve insulting or belittling the recipient, and a positive approach should be adopted to ensure the recipient remains receptive.

Manager/Supervisor

  • The person giving feedback should remain calm and composed to avoid the recipient becoming defensive.
  • Adopting a positive approach and being open-minded is crucial for effective feedback.

Receiving Feedback

  • The recipient of feedback should demonstrate openness through active listening, eye contact, and collaborative idea generation.
  • Shared responsibility is essential, as everyone contributes to the guest experience, regardless of their role in the team.

Going Above and Beyond

  • Creating alternatives or offering suggestions can help effectively say "no" without explicitly doing so.
  • Strive to offer alternative ideas that might please the guest when their exact request cannot be fulfilled.
  • Empathize and show a willingness to provide a satisfactory alternative.

Essence of Exceptional Experience

  • Delivering an exceptional experience requires identifying and authentically responding to individual needs.
  • This principle applies universally across all organizational levels, from customers to employees, and from managers to executives.

Team Ethos

  • Nurture a team ethos dedicated to creating exceptional experiences, driven by a commitment to make positive impacts.
  • Encourage interactions that create bespoke and meaningful moments for each diner's enjoyment and satisfaction.

Appreciation Gestures

  • Consider sending personalized thank you notes after a visit, including information about upcoming special events or responses to guest queries.
  • This gesture can further personalize the experience and leave a lasting positive impression.

Host

  • The host plays a crucial role in the restaurant, interacting with every guest and leaving both the first and last impressions.
  • The host's responsibility is to put guests at ease, establishing a warm, friendly, engaged, and professional tone.
  • The host acts as the command center for service, determining the pace of the evening and how and when to seat the dining room.

Host Responsibilities

  • Greet guests with a genuine smile and warm welcome, addressing them by name if possible.
  • Take note of guests' seating preferences and accommodate their requests whenever possible.
  • Remember special occasions and acknowledge them with personalized greetings or small gestures.
  • Provide personalized menu recommendations based on guests' preferences and dietary restrictions.
  • Engage in friendly conversation with guests, showing genuine interest in their dining preferences and experiences.
  • Be aware of guests' needs in the dining room, noticing when they may need something.

Host, Continued

  • Be proactive in accommodating special requests from guests, whether it's adjusting the seasoning of a dish or preparing a custom cocktail.
  • Follow up with guests after the meal to ensure they had a satisfactory experience.
  • Bid farewell to guests with a personal touch, expressing gratitude for their visit and inviting them to return.

Captain/Lead Server

  • As a captain, you act as the guest liaison, making a memorable impact on the guest experience.
  • Your timing needs to be impeccable, your food and beverage knowledge second to none, and your hospitality constantly on display.
  • Know regular guests by name, as well as their preferences, dietary restrictions, and any special occasions they may be celebrating.

Captain/Lead Server Responsibilities

  • Offer personalized recommendations from the menu, based on guests' preferences and dietary restrictions.
  • Observe the pace at which guests are enjoying their meal and adjust the timing of subsequent courses accordingly.
  • Provide personalized touches to the table setting or presentation of dishes.
  • Engage in genuine conversation with guests, taking the time to learn about their interests and preferences.
  • Follow up with guests after the meal to ensure they had a satisfactory experience.

Captain/Lead Server, Continued

  • Anticipate guests' needs before they arise, whether it's refilling drinks, providing additional utensils, or offering assistance with menu choices.
  • Remember frequent visitors' preferences in the restaurant's database for future visits.
  • Offer insights into the menu, such as the chef's specialties or the origins of certain ingredients.
  • Send personalized thank you notes after their visit to leave a lasting impression.

Server

  • This role and guest contact are similar to the captain role.
  • Build rapport by greeting guests warmly and engaging in friendly conversation to establish a connection.
  • Pay attention to cues about guests' preferences, interests, and dining habits.
  • Learn guest preferences, taking note of dietary restrictions, favorite dishes, preferred drinks, and any special requests.
  • Offer personalized recommendations based on guests' preferences and dietary restrictions.
  • Provide insights into the menu, including chef's specialties, seasonal offerings, and wine pairings.
  • Customize orders by accommodating special requests or modifications to dishes.
  • Ensure attention to detail in every aspect of the dining experience, from table setting to presentation of dishes.
  • Gauge the pace at which guests are dining and adjust the timing of courses accordingly.
  • Personalized service can elevate the dining experience and leave a lasting impression.

High-Level Integration of Roles & Responsibilities

  • Each partner of the dining team plays a vital role in delivering exceptional service to guests.
  • Collaboration and support among the team ensure seamless service delivery.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Dining Manager/Supervisor:
    • Assures exceptional experience for guests
    • Handles resident conflicts
    • Provides feedback to partners
  • Host:
    • Welcomes guests to the restaurant
    • Creates floor plans for servers
    • Communicates visit notes
    • Assists as needed
  • Bartender:
    • Makes accurate drink orders
    • Stocks bus bins neatly
    • Enters accurate orders
    • Keeps the restaurant stocked
  • Lead Server/Captain:
    • Acts as guest liaison
    • Role-models elevated service
    • Communicates specialty items to the chef
    • Enters accurate orders
  • Server:
    • Enters accurate orders
    • Communicates specialty items to the chef
    • Assists with seating tables
    • Keeps the restaurant stocked
  • Food Runner/Expo:
    • Assembles and bags to-go orders
    • Accurately delivers food to tables
    • Keeps the restaurant stocked
    • Liaisons between the chef and FOH team
  • Busser:
    • Greets and waters tables
    • Provides bread for tables
    • Pre-busses tables
    • Resets tables

Advanced Dining Room Etiquette

  • Great service hinges on the perception of being well-treated.
  • Fine dining service focuses on creating moments that elevate guests to a state of culinary bliss and unmatched hospitality.
  • Key principles:
    • The guest is always right.
    • Embrace positivity and personability.
    • Treat guests as you would in your own home.
    • Maintain eye contact and smile.
    • Aim beyond mere satisfaction.
    • Value all feedback.
    • Prioritize accommodation.
    • Keep personal issues away from guests.

Sequence of Service: Detailed & Explained

  • Preparation:
    • Confirm with the host: party's name, size, and special considerations.
    • Gather details if guests are away from the podium.
  • Approach:
    • Greet the party with a pleasant greeting.
    • Convey readiness to guide them to their table.
  • Bar Coordination:
    • Offer to carry drinks or follow up with guests.
    • Confirm if they wish to transfer the bar tab.
  • Journey to the Table:
    • Lead the party to their table at a considerate pace.
    • Assist with seating by managing booth tables and chairs.
  • Greeting the Table:
    • Promptly acknowledge new guests within two minutes of seating.
    • Engage with a warm greeting, maintaining eye contact.

Fine Tuning the Details

  • Pre-setting Glassware:
    • Ensure correct glassware and wine coasters are pre-set at the table.
  • Marking Silverware:
    • Use the correct silverware for each course.
    • Never compromise the integrity of a set table by borrowing silverware.
  • Checking Back with the Table:
    • Within 2-minutes or two bites from serving any course, discreetly return to the table.
    • Frame your inquiry to prompt specific requests.

Maintaining Table Elegance

  • Clearing the Table:
    • Wait until all guests have finished before beginning to clear.
    • Clear from the guest's right side, using your right hand when feasible.
  • Clearing the Entrée:
    • Remove all dinnerware, including side plates and placemats (if applicable).
    • Collect all silverware and any empty glassware to de-clutter the table.
  • Wiping the Table:
    • Once the table is cleared, wipe from the right side with the crumber.
    • Collect crumbs efficiently by sweeping them outward, depositing them into a clean plate.

Finishing Touches

  • Presenting the Dessert and Dessert Wine Menus:
    • After the main course has been cleared and the table refreshed, present the dessert and spirits menus.
    • Place the dessert menu at the center of each setting.
  • Clearing Dessert:
    • Follow the established clearing procedures, removing dessert plates only after all guests have concluded their dessert course.
  • Presenting the Check:
    • At dinner, the check presentation is prompted solely by the guest's request, barring specific direction from management.
    • Ensure accuracy in all charges, including bar transfers, promotional deletions, and corkage as per management's directives.

Personalized Experiences

  • Hospitality:
    • Aim to make guests feel at home with every interaction.
  • Personalization:
    • Customize experiences to individual guest preferences for memorable moments.
  • Communication:
    • Employ effective, empathetic communication to build trust.
  • Staff Development:
    • Focus on training and motivating staff in hospitality and personalization.
  • Technology:
    • Use technology to anticipate and meet guest needs.
  • Feedback:
    • Continuously improve through feedback, enhancing service and satisfaction.### Personalized Experiences
  • Giving feedback should never involve insulting or belittling the recipient, and a positive approach should be adopted to ensure the recipient remains receptive.

Manager/Supervisor

  • The person giving feedback should remain calm and composed to avoid the recipient becoming defensive.
  • Adopting a positive approach and being open-minded is crucial for effective feedback.

Receiving Feedback

  • The recipient of feedback should demonstrate openness through active listening, eye contact, and collaborative idea generation.
  • Shared responsibility is essential, as everyone contributes to the guest experience, regardless of their role in the team.

Going Above and Beyond

  • Creating alternatives or offering suggestions can help effectively say "no" without explicitly doing so.
  • Strive to offer alternative ideas that might please the guest when their exact request cannot be fulfilled.
  • Empathize and show a willingness to provide a satisfactory alternative.

Essence of Exceptional Experience

  • Delivering an exceptional experience requires identifying and authentically responding to individual needs.
  • This principle applies universally across all organizational levels, from customers to employees, and from managers to executives.

Team Ethos

  • Nurture a team ethos dedicated to creating exceptional experiences, driven by a commitment to make positive impacts.
  • Encourage interactions that create bespoke and meaningful moments for each diner's enjoyment and satisfaction.

Appreciation Gestures

  • Consider sending personalized thank you notes after a visit, including information about upcoming special events or responses to guest queries.
  • This gesture can further personalize the experience and leave a lasting positive impression.

Host

  • The host plays a crucial role in the restaurant, interacting with every guest and leaving both the first and last impressions.
  • The host's responsibility is to put guests at ease, establishing a warm, friendly, engaged, and professional tone.
  • The host acts as the command center for service, determining the pace of the evening and how and when to seat the dining room.

Host Responsibilities

  • Greet guests with a genuine smile and warm welcome, addressing them by name if possible.
  • Take note of guests' seating preferences and accommodate their requests whenever possible.
  • Remember special occasions and acknowledge them with personalized greetings or small gestures.
  • Provide personalized menu recommendations based on guests' preferences and dietary restrictions.
  • Engage in friendly conversation with guests, showing genuine interest in their dining preferences and experiences.
  • Be aware of guests' needs in the dining room, noticing when they may need something.

Host, Continued

  • Be proactive in accommodating special requests from guests, whether it's adjusting the seasoning of a dish or preparing a custom cocktail.
  • Follow up with guests after the meal to ensure they had a satisfactory experience.
  • Bid farewell to guests with a personal touch, expressing gratitude for their visit and inviting them to return.

Captain/Lead Server

  • As a captain, you act as the guest liaison, making a memorable impact on the guest experience.
  • Your timing needs to be impeccable, your food and beverage knowledge second to none, and your hospitality constantly on display.
  • Know regular guests by name, as well as their preferences, dietary restrictions, and any special occasions they may be celebrating.

Captain/Lead Server Responsibilities

  • Offer personalized recommendations from the menu, based on guests' preferences and dietary restrictions.
  • Observe the pace at which guests are enjoying their meal and adjust the timing of subsequent courses accordingly.
  • Provide personalized touches to the table setting or presentation of dishes.
  • Engage in genuine conversation with guests, taking the time to learn about their interests and preferences.
  • Follow up with guests after the meal to ensure they had a satisfactory experience.

Captain/Lead Server, Continued

  • Anticipate guests' needs before they arise, whether it's refilling drinks, providing additional utensils, or offering assistance with menu choices.
  • Remember frequent visitors' preferences in the restaurant's database for future visits.
  • Offer insights into the menu, such as the chef's specialties or the origins of certain ingredients.
  • Send personalized thank you notes after their visit to leave a lasting impression.

Server

  • This role and guest contact are similar to the captain role.
  • Build rapport by greeting guests warmly and engaging in friendly conversation to establish a connection.
  • Pay attention to cues about guests' preferences, interests, and dining habits.
  • Learn guest preferences, taking note of dietary restrictions, favorite dishes, preferred drinks, and any special requests.
  • Offer personalized recommendations based on guests' preferences and dietary restrictions.
  • Provide insights into the menu, including chef's specialties, seasonal offerings, and wine pairings.
  • Customize orders by accommodating special requests or modifications to dishes.
  • Ensure attention to detail in every aspect of the dining experience, from table setting to presentation of dishes.
  • Gauge the pace at which guests are dining and adjust the timing of courses accordingly.
  • Personalized service can elevate the dining experience and leave a lasting impression.

High-Level Integration of Roles & Responsibilities

  • Each partner of the dining team plays a vital role in delivering exceptional service to guests.
  • Collaboration and support among the team ensure seamless service delivery.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Dining Manager/Supervisor:
    • Assures exceptional experience for guests
    • Handles resident conflicts
    • Provides feedback to partners
  • Host:
    • Welcomes guests to the restaurant
    • Creates floor plans for servers
    • Communicates visit notes
    • Assists as needed
  • Bartender:
    • Makes accurate drink orders
    • Stocks bus bins neatly
    • Enters accurate orders
    • Keeps the restaurant stocked
  • Lead Server/Captain:
    • Acts as guest liaison
    • Role-models elevated service
    • Communicates specialty items to the chef
    • Enters accurate orders
  • Server:
    • Enters accurate orders
    • Communicates specialty items to the chef
    • Assists with seating tables
    • Keeps the restaurant stocked
  • Food Runner/Expo:
    • Assembles and bags to-go orders
    • Accurately delivers food to tables
    • Keeps the restaurant stocked
    • Liaisons between the chef and FOH team
  • Busser:
    • Greets and waters tables
    • Provides bread for tables
    • Pre-busses tables
    • Resets tables

Advanced Dining Room Etiquette

  • Great service hinges on the perception of being well-treated.
  • Fine dining service focuses on creating moments that elevate guests to a state of culinary bliss and unmatched hospitality.
  • Key principles:
    • The guest is always right.
    • Embrace positivity and personability.
    • Treat guests as you would in your own home.
    • Maintain eye contact and smile.
    • Aim beyond mere satisfaction.
    • Value all feedback.
    • Prioritize accommodation.
    • Keep personal issues away from guests.

Sequence of Service: Detailed & Explained

  • Preparation:
    • Confirm with the host: party's name, size, and special considerations.
    • Gather details if guests are away from the podium.
  • Approach:
    • Greet the party with a pleasant greeting.
    • Convey readiness to guide them to their table.
  • Bar Coordination:
    • Offer to carry drinks or follow up with guests.
    • Confirm if they wish to transfer the bar tab.
  • Journey to the Table:
    • Lead the party to their table at a considerate pace.
    • Assist with seating by managing booth tables and chairs.
  • Greeting the Table:
    • Promptly acknowledge new guests within two minutes of seating.
    • Engage with a warm greeting, maintaining eye contact.

Fine Tuning the Details

  • Pre-setting Glassware:
    • Ensure correct glassware and wine coasters are pre-set at the table.
  • Marking Silverware:
    • Use the correct silverware for each course.
    • Never compromise the integrity of a set table by borrowing silverware.
  • Checking Back with the Table:
    • Within 2-minutes or two bites from serving any course, discreetly return to the table.
    • Frame your inquiry to prompt specific requests.

Maintaining Table Elegance

  • Clearing the Table:
    • Wait until all guests have finished before beginning to clear.
    • Clear from the guest's right side, using your right hand when feasible.
  • Clearing the Entrée:
    • Remove all dinnerware, including side plates and placemats (if applicable).
    • Collect all silverware and any empty glassware to de-clutter the table.
  • Wiping the Table:
    • Once the table is cleared, wipe from the right side with the crumber.
    • Collect crumbs efficiently by sweeping them outward, depositing them into a clean plate.

Finishing Touches

  • Presenting the Dessert and Dessert Wine Menus:
    • After the main course has been cleared and the table refreshed, present the dessert and spirits menus.
    • Place the dessert menu at the center of each setting.
  • Clearing Dessert:
    • Follow the established clearing procedures, removing dessert plates only after all guests have concluded their dessert course.
  • Presenting the Check:
    • At dinner, the check presentation is prompted solely by the guest's request, barring specific direction from management.
    • Ensure accuracy in all charges, including bar transfers, promotional deletions, and corkage as per management's directives.

Personalized Experiences

  • Hospitality:
    • Aim to make guests feel at home with every interaction.
  • Personalization:
    • Customize experiences to individual guest preferences for memorable moments.
  • Communication:
    • Employ effective, empathetic communication to build trust.
  • Staff Development:
    • Focus on training and motivating staff in hospitality and personalization.
  • Technology:
    • Use technology to anticipate and meet guest needs.
  • Feedback:
    • Continuously improve through feedback, enhancing service and satisfaction.### Personalized Experiences
  • Giving feedback should never involve insulting or belittling the recipient, and a positive approach should be adopted to ensure the recipient remains receptive.

Manager/Supervisor

  • The person giving feedback should remain calm and composed to avoid the recipient becoming defensive.
  • Adopting a positive approach and being open-minded is crucial for effective feedback.

Receiving Feedback

  • The recipient of feedback should demonstrate openness through active listening, eye contact, and collaborative idea generation.
  • Shared responsibility is essential, as everyone contributes to the guest experience, regardless of their role in the team.

Going Above and Beyond

  • Creating alternatives or offering suggestions can help effectively say "no" without explicitly doing so.
  • Strive to offer alternative ideas that might please the guest when their exact request cannot be fulfilled.
  • Empathize and show a willingness to provide a satisfactory alternative.

Essence of Exceptional Experience

  • Delivering an exceptional experience requires identifying and authentically responding to individual needs.
  • This principle applies universally across all organizational levels, from customers to employees, and from managers to executives.

Team Ethos

  • Nurture a team ethos dedicated to creating exceptional experiences, driven by a commitment to make positive impacts.
  • Encourage interactions that create bespoke and meaningful moments for each diner's enjoyment and satisfaction.

Appreciation Gestures

  • Consider sending personalized thank you notes after a visit, including information about upcoming special events or responses to guest queries.
  • This gesture can further personalize the experience and leave a lasting positive impression.

Host

  • The host plays a crucial role in the restaurant, interacting with every guest and leaving both the first and last impressions.
  • The host's responsibility is to put guests at ease, establishing a warm, friendly, engaged, and professional tone.
  • The host acts as the command center for service, determining the pace of the evening and how and when to seat the dining room.

Host Responsibilities

  • Greet guests with a genuine smile and warm welcome, addressing them by name if possible.
  • Take note of guests' seating preferences and accommodate their requests whenever possible.
  • Remember special occasions and acknowledge them with personalized greetings or small gestures.
  • Provide personalized menu recommendations based on guests' preferences and dietary restrictions.
  • Engage in friendly conversation with guests, showing genuine interest in their dining preferences and experiences.
  • Be aware of guests' needs in the dining room, noticing when they may need something.

Host, Continued

  • Be proactive in accommodating special requests from guests, whether it's adjusting the seasoning of a dish or preparing a custom cocktail.
  • Follow up with guests after the meal to ensure they had a satisfactory experience.
  • Bid farewell to guests with a personal touch, expressing gratitude for their visit and inviting them to return.

Captain/Lead Server

  • As a captain, you act as the guest liaison, making a memorable impact on the guest experience.
  • Your timing needs to be impeccable, your food and beverage knowledge second to none, and your hospitality constantly on display.
  • Know regular guests by name, as well as their preferences, dietary restrictions, and any special occasions they may be celebrating.

Captain/Lead Server Responsibilities

  • Offer personalized recommendations from the menu, based on guests' preferences and dietary restrictions.
  • Observe the pace at which guests are enjoying their meal and adjust the timing of subsequent courses accordingly.
  • Provide personalized touches to the table setting or presentation of dishes.
  • Engage in genuine conversation with guests, taking the time to learn about their interests and preferences.
  • Follow up with guests after the meal to ensure they had a satisfactory experience.

Captain/Lead Server, Continued

  • Anticipate guests' needs before they arise, whether it's refilling drinks, providing additional utensils, or offering assistance with menu choices.
  • Remember frequent visitors' preferences in the restaurant's database for future visits.
  • Offer insights into the menu, such as the chef's specialties or the origins of certain ingredients.
  • Send personalized thank you notes after their visit to leave a lasting impression.

Server

  • This role and guest contact are similar to the captain role.
  • Build rapport by greeting guests warmly and engaging in friendly conversation to establish a connection.
  • Pay attention to cues about guests' preferences, interests, and dining habits.
  • Learn guest preferences, taking note of dietary restrictions, favorite dishes, preferred drinks, and any special requests.
  • Offer personalized recommendations based on guests' preferences and dietary restrictions.
  • Provide insights into the menu, including chef's specialties, seasonal offerings, and wine pairings.
  • Customize orders by accommodating special requests or modifications to dishes.
  • Ensure attention to detail in every aspect of the dining experience, from table setting to presentation of dishes.
  • Gauge the pace at which guests are dining and adjust the timing of courses accordingly.
  • Personalized service can elevate the dining experience and leave a lasting impression.

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