How to Clear the Table as a Waiter

Having a table full of dirty dishes and silverware is messy, makes it look like you aren't doing your job as a server competently and leaves the guest feeling ignored. When a guest feels ignored, it has a negative direct effect on your tip.

Instructions

1

Watch your table. After you've served the food and checked back to make sure everything is to their liking, peek at the table as you are attending to your other guests. Doing so allows you to clear the dishes as your guests are finishing instead of all at once.

2

Clear the dinner plates. If it looks like your guests are finished eating but there is still food left on the plate, ask them if they are finished before you clear the dishes. Some simple and polite ways to ask if a guest is finished are "May I take your plate?" or "Would you like a box?"

3

Take away the dirty silverware as well when you clear the dinner plates.

4

Ask about beverages. If your guest's beverage glasses are empty, refill them if they are drinking commonly refillable drinks like soda or iced tea. Clear all empty alcoholic drink glasses and ask if they would like another one.