Hospitality Makes All The Difference

Think about the last time you went out to eat, and not at your own restaurant. We bet you can recall what food and the beverage you ordered, but you’re also probably able to remember how the staff made you feel. Were they attentive, warm, and welcoming or did they seat you in haste, forget to refill your water, and take forever with the check? The overall hospitality experience can play a huge part in how patrons feel about a dining experience, and it’s not just about being quick with their food. Below we’ve mapped out some easy hospitality practices your team can implement before, during, and after a guest’s dining experience. 

Before Seating

A great hospitality experience should start the second patrons walk into your operation. Never underestimate the importance of an inviting welcome by friendly staff. Make sure whoever is manning the host position has a warm demeanor and is ready to be the first face of your operation. Is the restaurant a little on the busy side? Offer to place a drink order for waiting guests or a discounted or free glass of wine while they wait.

During Their Meal 

As guests dive into their meals, remind your front-of-house staff to do a quality check. Make sure everything is to their liking. See if they need a refill or a new drink order. Be sure they have the necessary cutlery. And always make sure to ask if they have the correct or right amount of sauce—we’ve all been there. A lack of dressing or dipping sauce can make or break an experience. But remember not to be too persistent, watch for a natural lull in the conversation or refill a glass without asking–people want to enjoy time with their loved ones as well as their meal, interrupting too often can be a turn-off. 

Finishing The Experience 

When you see your guests are starting to wrap up their meal, have your wait staff stop by to see if there is anything they can do to finish their experience on a high note: dessert, a cheese plate, nightcap, or how they would like the check prepared. Try to recall what you’ve heard or observed during their visit. Are they celebrating an anniversary or a big event? Are they in from out of town and wish they had the opportunity to try a certain dish? Use these tidbits of knowledge to fuel some fun, maybe bringing them a complimentary dessert or celebratory glass of champagne. Putting that final button on a dining experience can quickly elevate their memories of your restaurant from good to great. Remember, personal recommendations are a great way for people discover and try new restaurants.