10 Essential Food Server Interview Questions and Answers [Updated 2024]

Sample Answer
Once, during a particularly busy evening, a customer complained about his meal not arriving on time. He was quite upset and started raising his voice. I calmly apologized for the delay, explained that we were particularly busy but reassured him that his order was being prepared and would be out soon. I also offered him a complimentary drink for his wait. He calmed down and thanked me for handling the situation professionally. He left satisfied and even left a generous tip.

Sample Answer
During busy shifts, I approach multitasking by organizing my tasks in order of urgency. I prioritize first serving customers who have been waiting the longest, then clearing tables, and finally restocking necessary supplies. However, I understand that each situation is unique and can require a different order of tasks. I also try to stay calm and focused, which I believe is crucial for effective multitasking.

Sample Answer
When taking orders, I always take the time to ensure that I fully understand the customer’s request. I am attentive to their choices and any customizations they might want. If I’m not sure about a particular request, I don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. I also repeat the order back to the customer to confirm that I’ve got everything right. If the restaurant uses a digital ordering system, I make sure to input the details accurately and double-check before finalizing the order.

Sample Answer
One evening, our restaurant was unexpectedly short-staffed due to a few sudden sick calls. We were expecting a busy night, so I had to think quickly. I took the initiative to redistribute the sections among the remaining servers and suggested that the hosts help with bussing tables to keep things moving. We all had to step up and take responsibility for tasks outside of our usual roles, but we managed to provide excellent service despite the challenge. The evening was a success, and it showed me that I can handle unexpected situations effectively.

Sample Answer
One evening, we had a couple celebrating their golden anniversary. I noticed they were a bit emotional and found out they got engaged at our restaurant. I spoke with my manager and arranged a special dessert with a message ‘Happy 50th Anniversary.’ They were so grateful and promised to keep coming back. They also left a great review mentioning my name, and it increased our bookings for the following week.

Sample Answer
If a customer complained about their food, the first thing I would do is to listen to their concerns, showing empathy and understanding. I would then apologize for the inconvenience and offer to replace the meal or suggest another dish. If the customer was still not satisfied, I would involve my manager to ensure the issue is resolved to the customer’s satisfaction. Customer satisfaction is my top priority and I believe that every situation can be resolved in a manner that leaves the customer feeling valued and respected.

Sample Answer
I believe it’s crucial to take dietary restrictions and allergies seriously. If a customer informs me of their needs, I would double-check our menu and suggest dishes that meet their requirements. I’d also communicate these restrictions to the kitchen staff to ensure there’s no cross-contamination. If I’m uncertain about a dish, I would not hesitate to ask the chef. My main objective would be to make the customer feel comfortable and assure them that their needs are being taken into account.

Sample Answer
Firstly, I would apologize to the customer for the mistake. I would then immediately inform the kitchen about the error and ensure that the correct order is prioritized. While waiting for the correct order, I would check in on the rest of the party and continue to provide them with excellent service. I believe that mistakes can happen, but it’s how we handle and learn from them that’s most important.

Sample Answer
I remember serving a Japanese customer who didn’t speak English very well. I initially tried to communicate using simple English and gestures, but there were still misunderstandings. So, I decided to use a translation app on my phone to facilitate our conversation. I typed in the information about our menu and specials, and translated it into Japanese for our guest. The customer seemed relieved and was able to place his order without any issues. It was a rewarding experience as it taught me how to overcome language barriers while providing excellent service.

Sample Answer
Firstly, I would apologize to the customer for any inconvenience caused. I would then reassure them that I am doing my best to expedite their order. If there are delays from the kitchen, I would communicate this to the customer and offer them complimentary bread or drinks while they wait. If the customer is still dissatisfied, I would involve my manager to help resolve the situation. My main aim is to ensure that each customer has a positive experience, even in situations where things don’t go as planned.