Let’s face it: more table turns mean more revenue.
But rushing guests out the door? That’s a surefire way to kill the vibe and your repeat business.
The key is to speed up service without anyone noticing.
Are you ready to increase table turns while keeping your guests happy?
Let’s break it down with four no-nonsense strategies.
1. Tighten Up Your Service Flow
Slow service is the enemy of fast table turns.
If your team isn’t working like a well-oiled machine, it’s time to tighten up.
From when guests walk into when they walk out, your crew should move with purpose.
Pro Tip
Train servers to greet, seat, and take orders within minutes. No downtime. No excuses.
Keep water glasses filled and always be ready with the check right after dessert.
Speed doesn’t mean rushing—it means efficiency.
2. Keep Your Menu Lean and Mean
A bloated menu not only slows down the kitchen but also leaves guests staring at options for too long.
Keep it simple and focused, especially during peak hours. Your kitchen runs smoother, and guests spend less time deciding.
Pro Tip
Run a tight, curated menu during busy shifts. Focus on your bestsellers and streamline the options.
Think of a lunch menu/special with your fastest-cooking meals. Maybe a date night special for 2 on Friday or Saturday nights.
Or perhaps a Special Sunday Brunch menu for the after-church crowd because, honestly, how long do you actually want them around? 😅
Decision paralysis? Not in your restaurant.
3. Set the Pace with Smart Seating
Your seating process should be fast and seamless. The more time you waste seating guests, the more your tables sit empty.
Train your hosts to hustle and greet each guest like they’re VIP.
Pro Tip
Seat guests immediately, no lingering at the host stand.
Offer bar seating or free/discounted apps at the bar to entice folks to sit there and get off your waitlist!
Get them settled, get their orders, and keep it moving.
4. Pre-Bus Like a Pro
Pre-bussing is your not-so-secret weapon.
Clearing plates as guests finish sends a subtle signal that the meal is winding down and keeps the table clean.
No one’s hanging out in a mess, and your servers stay on top of things.
Pro Tip
Train servers and bussers to clear dishes when guests are done with them.
Don’t wait until the table is a disaster zone. A clean table is a quick table.
Bottom Line
You don’t have to rush guests out the door to flip tables faster. Intelligent, efficient service is the name of the game.
When your team moves with purpose, the tables turn quicker, guests leave happy, and revenue gets a well-deserved boost.
Now put these strategies into action and watch your tables fill up faster than ever.