Long waiting times can negatively impact customer satisfaction, leading to lost sales and negative reviews. However, with the right approach, you can manage wait times effectively or even turn them into a positive experience. In this guide, we’ll explore optimal waiting times, strategies to handle delays, and how tools like EPOS systems, online ordering, and food ordering apps can improve efficiency.
How Long Should Restaurant Wait Times Be?
- Seating: Ideally, customers should be seated within 15 minutes. Studies show that 54% of customers are unlikely to return if they experience long waits.
- Food Preparation: Orders should reach customers within 20-30 minutes after being placed.
If waiting times exceed these benchmarks, it’s important to have a strategy in place to keep customers engaged and satisfied.
What to Do If the Wait Is Longer?
When delays happen, proactive management can turn a frustrating experience into a positive one. Here’s how:
- Offer something extra: Complimentary drinks, appetisers, or small discounts make customers feel appreciated.
- Keep customers informed: Regular updates on table or order status show that you value their time.
Create a comfortable waiting area: Seating, entertainment options (such as menu previews, background music, or reading materials) can help make the wait feel shorter.
How to Reduce Long Waiting Times?
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some proven strategies to minimise delays:
- Optimise Your Layout: Efficient table arrangements improve traffic flow and reduce congestion, ensuring a smoother dining experience.
- Implement a Reservation System: Use online booking tools like OpenTable to reduce unexpected crowding and better manage peak hours.
- Use an EPOS System: A modern EPOS system speeds up order processing, minimises errors, and streamlines communication between front-of-house and kitchen staff.
- Offer Online Ordering & Food Ordering Apps: Encouraging customers to order in advance through a food ordering app or online ordering system helps stagger demand and reduce in-house wait times.
- Streamline Your Menu: A simplified menu with well-planned prep times speeds up service while maintaining quality.
- Staff Strategically: Scheduling more staff during peak hours ensures quick service and prevents bottlenecks in the kitchen.
Improve Your Restaurant’s Efficiency with the Right Tools
From EPOS systems to online ordering websites and mobile apps, investing in the right technology can significantly reduce wait times and improve customer experience. At CholoEat, we provide tailored solutions to help your business run smoothly, ensuring faster service and happier customers.
Contact Us Today
Find out how we can help your restaurant or takeaway run more efficiently.
