Prep the Appetizer

Step 3 of 11

The short window between the food order going in and the appetizer actually landing at the table.

What This Step Covers

Getting plates and condiments in place before the appetizer arrives, so the table is ready the moment it lands.

The Benchmarks
  • Appetizer plate prep
    Server brings appetizer plates and asks about any condiments the guest might want.
Why It Matters

Small, easy-to-skip steps like this one are what guests notice precisely because they’re easy to skip. Having plates and condiments ready before the food arrives means the appetizer can be enjoyed the moment it lands, instead of the table waiting on silverware or sauce.

Where It Breaks

The guest expected to dig in as soon as the appetizer arrived, and instead had to wait, or flag someone down, for a plate or a condiment that should already have been on the table.