Top 5 ways to improve table turnover rate
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Top 5 ways to improve table turnover rate
Improving your table turnover rate is one of the fastest ways to increase revenue without expanding your space. The goal is to move guests through their dining experience efficiently while ensuring they never feel rushed. Here are five effective strategies.
1. Implement Digital Menus
Traditional menus often involve a lot of waiting—waiting to be seated, waiting for the server to bring menus, and waiting for the server to return for the order. With QR code menus, guests can browse the menu immediately upon sitting down, significantly shortening the initial decision-making phase.
2. Optimize Kitchen Workflows
A delay in the kitchen is a delay at the table. Ensure your kitchen staff is trained on efficient prep and plating techniques. Using a Kitchen Display System (KDS) can help track ticket times and identify bottlenecks in real-time.
3. Pre-Set Your Tables
During peak hours, every minute counts. Having tables pre-set with napkins, silverware, and water glasses can shave minutes off the seating process. It also sends a signal to the guest that the team is organized and ready to serve.
4. Train Staff on Strategic Service
Servers should be trained to anticipate guest needs. This includes bringing the check promptly after dessert or coffee is finished (or even when it's ordered, depending on the concept). A "one-trip" mentality—bringing everything needed for a course in one go—also helps.
5. Leverage Technology for Payments
Waiting for the check and then waiting for the server to process the payment is often the longest part of the meal. Offering mobile payment options or at-table tablets can reduce this "dead time" by 5 to 10 minutes per table.
By focusing on these efficiency-boosting techniques, you can serve more guests and improve your bottom line while maintaining a high standard of service.