Why do restaurants take your menu away so quickly?
I’m sure many of you have experienced this situation before. I’m not certain if it’s specific to Australia, but why do waitstaff remove menus as soon as possible?
It makes sense when you’ve ordered a full three courses right away, but I’ve noticed it happening in bars where you order a few small plates. As you enjoy your drinks, you’re often inclined to order more food, too.
Does anyone have insight into this?
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The quick removal of menus in restaurants can be a bit confusing, and it might vary by location or style of dining. Here are a few reasons why some waitstaff choose to take the menu away promptly:
Encouraging Prompt Decisions: In busy settings, especially bars or casual eateries, staff might want to encourage you to make quicker decisions. This can help keep the flow of service moving smoothly, especially during peak times.
Fostering Engagement: By taking the menu away, the staff might be encouraging more interaction and conversation about the menu items, which can lead to recommendations or promotions on popular dishes.
Maximizing Table Turnover: Restaurants often aim to serve as many guests as possible, and removing the menu may be a tactic to push diners to order more quickly, helping to turn tables faster.
Menu Changes/Seasonal Items: Sometimes the menu might change frequently, and the staff might want to ensure diners are focused on what’s available at that moment rather than sitting with a menu for an extended period.
Space Management: In crowded spaces, having fewer items on the table can also help with the overall flow of service, allowing for more room for plates and drinks.
It’s not an Aussie-specific thing; many venues around the world adopt similar practices depending on their service style. If you find it frustrating, you could always politely ask for the menu back if you’re still considering your options!