What should you do if a member is waiting a long time for their order?

What should you do if a member is waiting a long time for their order?

• A. Cancel the order
• B. Encourage them to wait without updating
• C. Tell the member you will see how much longer the order will take, and ask if you can bring anything else to a table for them while they are waiting.
• D. Ignore them

Answer: (C)

When a guest is waiting longer than expected, the best move is to handle the delay with proactive, attentive service. Check on the order with the kitchen, give the guest a new estimated time, and offer to bring something else to the table while they wait. This shows you’re in control, you respect their time, and you’re looking for ways to make the wait more comfortable. It helps reduce frustration, keeps the guest informed, and can leave a positive impression even if the delay happens. Cancelling the order, pushing them to wait without updates, or ignoring them all undermine the experience by creating uncertainty or showing a lack of care.

When a guest is waiting longer than expected, the best move is to handle the delay with proactive, attentive service. Check on the order with the kitchen, give the guest a new estimated time, and offer to bring something else to the table while they wait. This shows you’re in control, you respect their time, and you’re looking for ways to make the wait more comfortable. It helps reduce frustration, keeps the guest informed, and can leave a positive impression even if the delay happens. Cancelling the order, pushing them to wait without updates, or ignoring them all undermine the experience by creating uncertainty or showing a lack of care.