Tips for Dealing with table reservation problems in Restaurants

Table reservation problems can be frustrating, especially when you have been looking forward to dining out. However, there are a few tips you can follow to help you deal with these types of problems in restaurants.

Firstly, it’s important to remain calm and polite when speaking to the restaurant staff. Getting angry or being rude will not help you resolve the issue and will only make matters worse. Instead, explain the situation calmly and ask if there’s anything they can do to help.

Secondly, be flexible. If the restaurant is unable to accommodate your original reservation, ask if there’s an alternative time or day that might work for you. Alternatively, ask if there’s any space available at the bar or in the lounge area where you can wait for a table to become available.

Thirdly, consider making a backup reservation at another restaurant. This way, if your original reservation falls through, you still have a backup plan and won’t be left without a place to eat.

Finally, if you’re still not satisfied with the way the situation has been resolved, consider speaking to a manager or leaving a review online to share your experience with others. Remember to be honest but fair in your critique.

When the table is not yet ready

I’m very sorry Mr. Sam, your table is not quite ready. It’ll be ready in about 10 to 15 minutes. Would you like to have a drink at our lounge bar while waiting?

When the guest’s reserved table has been given away

Apologize: I am very sorry, Mr. Sam. We have given away your table by mistake. I am very sorry.

Request the guest to wait: May we host you a drink at the bar while we solve the problem?

If the the guest agrees to wait at the bar: This way please Mr. Sam

When you arrive at the bar: I hope you will enjoy your drink. I will return when the table is ready.

Try to offer the guest another table:

• I apologize for keeping you waiting.
•  I have arranged another table for you. I think you will like it.
•  Please come with me, and I’ll show you to your table.
•  When you arrive at the new table
•  Is this table fine, Mr. Sam? Or: Is this table suitable for you?

If the guest doesn’t like the alternate table:   

• I can also offer you a table (over there / in that corner, etc).
•  Would you prefer to sit there? 
•  I’m sorry, but there are no other tables available.

The guest’s reserved table has been given away, and no other table is free

Apologize: I am very sorry, Mr. Kelvin. We have given away your table by mistake. If a table will be free soon I will inform you about it.

Request the guest to wait: Mr. Kelvin, the table will be free in about 30 minutes. May I host you a drink at the bar while you wait?

EscortA person; usually employed by a tour operator; who accompanies atour from departure to return and se... the guest to the BAR: I hope you will enjoy your drink. I will return when your table is ready. When you return, take the guest to another table

When the table is ready: I apologize for keeping you waiting, I have arranged another table for you. I think you will like it. Kindly come with me, and I’ll show you to your table.

If The guest will not wait until a table is ready: Would you like me to arrange a table for you in the Thai Restaurant instead? Check that there is a table free there if yes then escort the guest to the restaurant.

By following these tips, you can navigate table reservation problems in restaurants with grace and ease, ensuring that you still have an enjoyable dining experience.