SOP For Table Service
Objec&ve
To ensure excep,onal table service with a strong focus on clearing plates and placemats with precision,
avoiding any food residue, spills, or mess.
Scope
This procedure applies to all Front of House (FOH) team members, including waiters, hosts, and
supervisors. It emphasizes proper techniques for clearing plates and placemats to maintain SKAM’s high
standards of service.
Detailed Procedures for Clearing Plates and Placemats
1. Prepara&on Before Clearing
A- Monitor the guests' dining progress:
- Ensure guest at the table have finished his meal before star,ng to clear plates unless requested
otherwise.
- Politely ask, “May I clear this for you?” before removing any items.
B- Organize your clearing tools:
- Carry a clean tray and a cleaning cloth to avoid making mul,ple trips.
- Iden,fy a designated sta,on nearby for placing cleared items.
2. Clearing Plates Without Spills
A- Proper hand posi?oning:
- Use one hand to gently liS the plate while stabilizing the tray with the other.
- Avoid overloading the tray to reduce the risk of accidents.
B- Securing food residue:
- Before liSing the plate, use a knife or fork to gather any leSover food to prevent it from falling.
- Always keep plates horizontal to avoid spilling liquids or sauces.
C- Order of clearing:
- Start with plates containing fewer food remnants.
- Handle plates with liquids or sauces carefully, ensuring they remain upright.
D- Quiet and unobtrusive removal:
- Avoid making noise when stacking plates on the tray.
- If needed, clear one plate at a ,me to maintain professionalism and accuracy.
SOP For Table Service
3. Clearing Placemats Without Crea&ng a Mess
A- Inspect for food remnants:
- Visually check the placemat for crumbs or food residue before removing it.
- Use a clean napkin or cloth to collect crumbs and place them on a plate being cleared.
B- Proper removal technique:
- Gently liS the placemat from the table and fold it slightly inward to contain any crumbs.
- Avoid shaking the placemat in the dining area to prevent scaWering crumbs.
C- Proper disposal of placemats:
- Place used placemats neatly on the tray or in the designated sta,on without dropping crumbs or
residue.
4. Ensuring Table Cleanliness AEer Clearing
A- Wiping surfaces:
- Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the table immediately aSer clearing plates and placemats.
- Focus on areas that may have food residue or liquids.
B- Checking for spills or crumbs:
- Ensure no food or crumbs are scaWered during the clearing process.
- If crumbs or spills are no,ced on the floor or other surfaces, clean them immediately using
appropriate tools.
C- ReseIng the table:
- Replace placemats, napkins, and utensils with clean ones according to SKAM’s table setup standards.
- Ensure the table is free of crumbs, stains, or mess before reseZng.
General Best Prac&ces
A- Body posi?oning during clearing:
- Clear items from the guest’s right side whenever possible to maintain proper e,queWe.
- Avoid reaching across guests or bumping into other items on the table.
B- Team coordina?on:
- Communicate with team members to coordinate clearing during peak ,mes.
- Seek assistance from teammates for larger par,es to ensure smooth and efficient clearing.
C- Maintain professionalism:
- Always smile and thank guests while clearing plates or placemats.
- Priori,ze accuracy and thoroughness over speed, even during busy hours.
Summary
Focusing on proper techniques for clearing plates and placemats is essen,al to upholding SKAM’s
reputa,on for excellence. Following these procedures ensures a clean and ,dy dining experience for
guests, with no food residue or spills disrup,ng their visit.
