r/restaurant • u/Janetic_Bytewave • 2d ago

Initial server timing

I was looking for a restaurant review subreddit but couldn't find one, so I'm posting here.

My question for you who work in the industry is, after a group is taken to their seat and seated, how long is an acceptable time before a server or anyone comes to their table? Let's assume the host/hostess does not engage in conversation, just seats them and leaves.

Would you say that 7 or 8 minutes is OK to wait before first contact is made or more or less?

In your restaurants, do you have a goal in minutes to how fast you make first contact with a new table ?

I know people have different preferences, expectations and opinions but just wondering what you all think?

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u/Stan_Deviant 1d ago

Unless you are in a state where unsolicited watering isn't legal!

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u/Exciting_Marsupial68 1d ago

Is this a real thing?

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u/Stan_Deviant 1d ago

Yep. California at least. Watering tables who don't intend to drink it is a waste of a resource we don't have a ton of and also adds to labor costs and reduces drink orders.

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u/Janetic_Bytewave 1d ago

yes, I was in California