Food Runner

Food Runner Guide Overview:

As a Food Runner at Osteria Pollani, you are a key player in ensuring that food is delivered promptly, accurately, and with excellent presentation to our guests. Your role helps create a seamless dining experience by working closely with the kitchen and servers. The following guide will walk you through the essential responsibilities, tasks, and best practices to excel in your position.

1. Pre-Shift Preparation

• Know the menu:
• Know the dishes, ingredients, and presentation to ensure accurate delivery and answer any guest questions.
• Dining Room Layout:
• Familiarize yourself with table numbers and seating arrangements. Be aware of any special guest requests or dietary restrictions.
• Station Setup:
• Ensure the food runner station is organized with clean spoons and knives, napkins, and condiments.

2. During the Shift: Food Running Tasks

• Pick Up Orders:
• Collect completed food orders from the kitchen. Ensure that the order is correct, including all sides, garnishes, and sauces.
• Check Accuracy:
• Verify each dish against the ticket for accuracy, ensuring that all items (e.g., sauces, sides) are included. Pay attention to special requests, dietary restrictions, or allergies.
• Deliver Food to table:
• Deliver food promptly to the appropriate table. Make sure to confirm seat numbers or ask the server if unsure.
• Always serve food with the correct presentation (clean plates, neat garnishes, etc.).
• Guest Interaction:
• Be polite and courteous when delivering food. If requested, offer additional items (parmigiano).

3. Working with the Kitchen and Server Team

• Coordinate with the Kitchen:
• Communicate with kitchen staff to ensure orders are prepared on time and accurately. Report any special requests or modifications directly to the kitchen.
• Efficient Communication:
• Regularly check with servers about table needs and delivery times. Keep servers informed if there are any issues with food or timing.
• Maintain Order Flow:
• Keep track of order timing to prevent delays. Prioritize food delivery based on order times to ensure that no food sits too long in the kitchen.

4. End-of-Shift Tasks

• Clean Station:
• After your shift, clean your food runner station. This includes wiping down trays, removing trash, and organizing any unused items, helping servers with what they need.
• Assist Closing Tasks:
• Help kitchen staff or servers with closing duties, such as restocking or cleaning, if necessary.

5. Best Practices for a Food Runner

• Be Fast and Efficient:
• Ensure that food is delivered promptly to prevent delays in service. Be quick, but always maintain a focus on accuracy and presentation.
• Attention to Detail:
• Double-check orders for accuracy before delivering. Pay attention to small details like correct garnishes and special requests.
• Stay Organized:
• Keep your station neat and organized to ensure you can quickly grab necessary items when needed.
• Positive Guest Interaction:
• Maintain a friendly and professional demeanor at all times. A positive attitude contributes to a memorable guest experience.
• Teamwork:
• Work closely with your colleagues, including kitchen staff and servers. If you see that a team member needs help, offer assistance when you can.

6. Key Skills for Success

• Knowledge of the Menu:
• Be familiar with the ingredients, preparations, and presentation of all dishes to assist with guest questions and ensure accurate delivery.
• Physical Stamina:
• The role involves carrying heavy trays, standing for long periods, and walking around the dining room. Being physically prepared is crucial.
• Time Management:
• Be efficient in managing multiple orders. Prioritize tasks to ensure that food is delivered on time and guests are taken care of.
• Communication:
• Effectively communicate with both the kitchen and the front-of-house team to avoid mistakes and delays.

7. Food Runner Etiquette

• Delivery Method:
• Serve food from the left and remove dishes from the right whenever possible. This is the standard industry practice and helps maintain a smooth service.
• Handling Hot Items:
• Be cautious when carrying hot plates. Always use appropriate safety measures (e.g., oven mitts or hot pads) and carry with both hands when necessary.
• Guest Service:
• Maintain professionalism by greeting guests warmly, addressing any additional requests, and keeping the table clean.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour

Shift:

• 4 hour shift

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16 - $18