How to Properly Serve a Table

Serving a table seems as easy as putting food down and picking up dirty dishes. The etiquette around it, however, makes it an enjoyable experience for those at the table. Certain rules apply for serving a table whether working in a restaurant or serving at a dinner party. The following will help guide you in your efforts to properly serving a table.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Know and understand the restaurant's style. The tone of the restaurant will set the presence in which you serve. Find out how the restaurant wants you to recognize the members or customers names.

2. Take orders and serve ladies first. Many formal settings will require an eldest to youngest rotation. Serve the men in the same fashion. Serve the host, male or female last.

3. Serve and clear plates with the right hand on the customer's right side.

4. Allow the host to taste the wine first. Serve the host, male or female last. Bring a chilled ice bucket if serving white wine.

5. Place the utensil down first then the course if the settings are not present. Forks go on the left while the knife and spoons go on the right. The blade of the knife should be facing the plate.

6. Serve cream and desert toppings from the left with the right hand.

7. Place coffee cups on the right side of the customer with the handle facing at five o'clock. Pour the coffee with your right hand.

Tips & Warnings

• Consistency is the key.
• Be warm and happy but not intruding to the party's conversations.
• Be cautious when using first names. Some people, especially your elders, find it insulting.

Resources

• Serving a table.
• How to serve wine.
• Serving a dinner party.