Taking a restaurant reservation
What information should you always ask for when someone calls to make a reservation? (One short answer)
How can I help you?
What is your name?
What table do you prefer?
Give a friendly one-sentence greeting you would use when guests walk in.
What does the word "specials" on a menu usually mean? (One sentence)
"Specials are dishes that the restaurant is offering for a limited time."
What is one phrase you can use to repeat an order to the customer to make sure it's correct? (Short phrase)
"Let me repeat your order."
If a caller asks for a table "for six at 7:00," what is a polite way to confirm the reservation? (Write a complete sentence.)
"Certainly. I have reserved a table for six guests at 7:00 p.m. We look forward to seeing you."
What is an appropriate question to ask a group to determine their seating preference? (e.g., booth, table)
How would you explain the term "gluten-free" to a customer who asks if a dish is gluten-free? (One clear sentence appropriate for a 7th grader.)
"Gluten-free means the food does not contain wheat, barley, or rye."
A customer orders a burger "medium." What follow-up question might you ask to clarify? (One sentence.)
"Would you like it cooked medium, medium-well, or well-done?" (or clarify what medium means if necessary)
A customer calls and says they will be late by 20 minutes. What should you say to them as the host/hostess? (Two-sentence response.)
"Thank you for letting us know. We will do our best to hold your table, and we look forward to welcoming you when you arrive."
If a guest says they have a reservation under "Martinez," what is the polite next step? (Briefly describe.)
"I would check the reservation list and say, 'One moment, please. Let me find your reservation.'"
A customer asks for a recommendation for a vegetarian main course. Write a two-sentence explanation of one menu item you would suggest and why.
"I recommend the vegetable pasta. It is made with fresh vegetables and a light tomato sauce, and many guests enjoy its flavor."
If a customer wants to customize a dish (e.g., hold onions, add cheese), how should you write or say the modifications so the kitchen receives them clearly? Provide a short example line.
Example: "Grilled chicken sandwich — no onions, add cheddar cheese, side: mixed greens (dressing on side)."
If the restaurant is fully booked for the evening, give two helpful alternatives you could offer the caller.
Describe how you would seat a family with a small child and a guest who uses a wheelchair. Include how you would address accessibility.
"I would choose a table with enough space for the wheelchair and a high chair for the child. I would make sure the guest can move easily and comfortably."
Explain how to describe a dish's flavor and ingredients without using food jargon, so a 7th grader could understand. Provide an example description (two sentences).
"Use simple words to explain what is in the dish and how it tastes. For example: This chicken dish has grilled chicken, rice, and vegetables. It tastes savory and a little smoky."
Two guests at a table want to split one entree. What information should you confirm with them and how would you tell the kitchen? (Two-sentence answer.)
"I would confirm that they want to share one entree and ask if they need extra plates. I would tell the kitchen: 'One entree to share, please provide two plates.'"
A guest asks to change their reservation from outdoor seating to indoor seating due to weather. Explain how you would check availability and respond, using professional phrases.
"Let me check our indoor seating availability for your reservation. Thank you for your patience. We do have an indoor table available, and I have updated your reservation. We look forward to welcoming you."
Role-play: A guest is unhappy because their table is farther from the window than they expected. Write a two- to three-sentence professional response to calm the guest and offer a solution.
"I understand your concern. I will see if we can move you to a different table. Thank you for your patience."
A guest has a nut allergy and asks which dessert is safe. Describe the steps you would take to confirm and respond, including communicating with kitchen staff.
"First, I would ask the guest about their allergy. Then, I would check the dessert ingredients and speak with the kitchen staff to confirm which desserts do not contain nuts. After that, I would return to the guest and explain which dessert is safe and whether there is any risk of cross-contamination."
server notices a customer has a strong peanut allergy but the ordered dish contains peanuts. Write a professional exchange (3–4 sentences) showing how the server informs the customer, suggests a safe alternative, and confirms the replacement.
Server: "I see your order has peanuts, and you mentioned a severe allergy—I'm so sorry. I can suggest the lemon chicken without nuts; I'll mark your allergy on the ticket and confirm with the kitchen that it's prepared in a nut-free area. Would you like me to switch the order to that now?"