What should a host do to encourage a guest to stay if they feel the wait is too long?

To encourage a guest to stay when they feel the wait is too long, sitting them at the bar, giving them a call ahead card, and grabbing a manager is an effective strategy. This option not only addresses the immediate concern of the wait but also shows the guest that their time is valued and that the restaurant is actively working to accommodate them.

By seating guests at the bar, they can start enjoying the restaurant's environment and possibly order drinks or snacks while they wait. The call ahead card serves as a reassurance that when they choose to come back, their wait will be significantly reduced. Involving a manager demonstrates that the establishment takes customer satisfaction seriously, reinforcing the idea that their experience matters. This combination of actions can help to alleviate frustration and create a positive impression, encouraging the guest to wait rather than leave.

The other options, while they might seem appealing, do not address the situation as effectively as this option. For example, offering free appetizers could lead to complications, such as it being expensive for the restaurant and not necessarily resolving the wait issue. Simply apologizing for the wait, though polite, may not provide a tangible solution that makes the guest feel more at ease. Suggesting they come back later does not resolve the current situation and could