How Reading the Table Can Elevate Your Guest Experience and Boost Sales

A 3 min read.

A great dining experience isn’t just about the food—it’s about how guests feel from the moment they sit down to the moment they leave. The ability to read a table effectively is one of the most valuable skills a restaurant leader can develop. It’s the difference between an ordinary meal and an experience that brings guests back.

Understanding Guest Cues

Guests communicate their needs in subtle ways, and it’s up to your team to pick up on those cues. Some guests want a high-energy, engaging experience, while others prefer a quiet, intimate meal. Recognizing body language, tone of voice, and engagement levels can help your team adjust their approach accordingly.

For example, if a table is engaged in deep conversation, a server who frequently interrupts with upsell suggestions might frustrate them. On the other hand, a table that is eager to chat and ask questions may appreciate a more interactive approach.

?? Want to sharpen your team’s ability to read tables and deliver exceptional service? Let’s work together! Whether it’s leadership coaching, team training, or refining your service strategy, I can help. Let’s connect. ??

Signs Guests Want to Connect

Guests who are open to engagement will often show signs through their body language and verbal interactions. Here are some cues that indicate they want a more interactive experience:

• They make eye contact and smile when the server approaches.
• They ask questions about the menu, the restaurant, or the server’s recommendations.
• They lean slightly forward and engage in friendly conversation.
• They initiate small talk beyond just ordering.
• They laugh or react warmly to light humor.
• Their body language is open, with relaxed postures and uncrossed arms.

Signs Guests Prefer Minimal Interaction

Some guests prefer to enjoy their meal with minimal interruption. Your staff should recognize these cues and respect their space:

• They give short, direct answers without asking follow-up questions.
• Their body language is closed off—arms crossed, avoiding eye contact.
• They engage more with their dining companions than with the server.
• They keep their menus up for extended periods, signaling they need more time.
• They glance around or check their phones rather than engaging with the server.
• They offer polite but quick responses, such as a simple “thank you” with no additional comments.

Shifting Mindsets for Better Service

Reading a table isn’t just about identifying guest moods—it’s also about recognizing your team’s approach to service. Some staff may use humor or insecurity as a crutch, unintentionally signaling to guests that they should tip more. Others might be overly formal, missing opportunities to create a genuine connection.

A great leader helps their team strike the right balance. By providing coaching and clear expectations, you can ensure your team presents themselves with confidence, reads guests effectively, and delivers a seamless dining experience.

Leading by Example

Your leadership sets the tone for how service should be executed. If you emphasize the importance of professionalism, reading guest cues, and communicating with confidence, your team will follow suit. Invest in training that helps your staff develop these skills—it will not only improve guest satisfaction but also create a more cohesive and empowered team.

P.S.

Here’s how I can help you elevate your restaurant’s service and leadership:

? Leadership Coaching – One-on-one coaching to help you and your managers build confidence, improve team communication, and develop strong leadership skills.

? Team Training & Workshops – Interactive workshops that sharpen service skills, enhance team dynamics, and create a stronger, more cohesive staff.

? Operational Strategy Sessions – Need help implementing new policies or refining service execution? Let’s build a plan that aligns with your restaurant’s values and guest experience goals.

Let’s talk about what’s next for your restaurant! Visit christinmarvin.com/contact to start the conversation. ??