How to Be Restaurant Food Runner - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 14, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The role of a food runner in a restaurant is integral to the success of the establishment. They are responsible for delivering food from the kitchen to the tables, communicating with the kitchen staff about orders and ensuring that the food is fresh and properly presented. This role is critical for customer satisfaction, as it ensures that customers receive their food in a timely manner and that it is hot and correctly prepared.

A good food runner will also help to create a positive atmosphere in the restaurant by providing efficient service and assisting servers with clearing tables. As a result, customers leave feeling satisfied with their experience, which leads to increased sales and higher profits for the restaurant.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Most employers require food runners to have a high school diploma or GED.
Obtain food safety certification. Most states require food handlers, including food runners, to have food safety certification. Complete the necessary coursework and take the exam to earn the certification.
Look for openings. Restaurant food runners typically work in restaurants, so search job boards or contact local restaurants to inquire about job openings.
Apply for the position. Fill out an application and submit a resume. Interview with the restaurant managers to discuss the position.
Become familiar with the restaurant's menu. Learn the menu items and be able to answer questions that customers may have about the food.
Understand how to order supplies and maintain stock of items like condiments and sauces.
Learn how to communicate orders from the kitchen to waitstaff.
Develop excellent customer service skills. Food runners must be courteous and helpful to customers when delivering food to tables.
Maintain a neat and professional appearance at all times in accordance with restaurant requirements.

As a restaurant food runner, staying ahead and efficient is essential for providing a great customer experience. One effective way to stay ahead and efficient is to plan ahead and anticipate customer needs. This means communicating with the kitchen and servers, understanding the menu and timing of food production, and being aware of any special requests or dietary restrictions.

organizing all orders by their table numbers and completing them in the proper order can ensure that food is delivered quickly and correctly. Lastly, having a positive attitude and staying focused can help to ensure that food is served on time and with a smile. By following these practices, restaurant food runners can stay ahead and efficient, helping to make a positive impression on customers.

You may want to check Restaurant Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Banquet Server, and Restaurant Bar Manager for alternative.

Job Description

Greet customers and take orders
Serve food and drinks to customers
Ensure food orders are accurate and delivered timely
Keep the restaurant clean and well-stocked
Assist the kitchen staff with food preparation and presentation
Check for customer satisfaction and address any complaints
Assist with setting up tables and chairs for guests
Maintain an organized and clean work area
Ensure that all food is properly stored and labeled
Prepare bills and collect payments from customers

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of restaurant menu items and ingredients
Ability to understand and follow instructions
Ability to move quickly and efficiently
Excellent customer service skills
Ability to multitask
Attention to detail
Ability to lift and carry heavy trays of food
Knowledge of proper food safety procedures
Strong organizational skills
Ability to work as part of a team

Being a successful Restaurant Food Runner requires strong organizational and communication skills. This means staying organized and communicating effectively with the kitchen and wait staff. it is important to have good problem-solving skills as well as an understanding of food safety procedures.

By having these skills, a Food Runner will be able to keep up with the fast pace of the restaurant and ensure that the customers order is delivered in a timely manner. Being a good listener and having the ability to multitask are also essential for a Food Runner, as they often have to coordinate with multiple people at once. Furthermore, it is important for the Food Runner to be detail-oriented and have a good memory, in order to accurately relay orders from the kitchen to the dining room.

With these key skills, a Restaurant Food Runner can ensure that the customers experience is pleasant and enjoyable.

Restaurant Quality Assurance Analyst, Restaurant Cocktail Server, and Restaurant Kitchen Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the restaurant industry?
Do you have experience as a food runner?
Are you comfortable carrying large trays of food?
How do you handle customer complaints?
Are you familiar with the menu items and meal preparation techniques?
How do you maintain a clean and organized workspace?
How would you handle a situation where the food order is incorrect?
What is your process for coordinating food orders?
How do you multitask to ensure all orders are delivered on time?
How do you stay organized and keep track of multiple orders?

Common Tools in Industry

Point of Sale System (POS). a computerized system used to record sales transactions, process payments, and track inventory (e. g. Square, Shopify).
Order Management System. a computer system used to track orders, manage customer information, and process orders (e. g. OpenTable).
Kitchen Display System (KDS). a digital display system used to show orders in the kitchen and help kitchen staff organize tasks (e. g. Toast).
Delivery Tracking Software. software used to track orders and assist food runners with delivery times and locations (e. g. UberEats, DoorDash).
Inventory Management Software. software used to track and manage inventory levels, costs, and sales (e. g. QuickBooks).

Professional Organizations to Know

National Restaurant Association
United States Foodservice Association
International Foodservice Distributors Association
National Association of Food Service Professionals
Restaurant Facility Management Association
International Association of Culinary Professionals
American Culinary Federation
National Society of Foodservice Management
International Foodservice Manufacturers Association
National Council of Chain Restaurants

We also have Restaurant Busser, Restaurant Assistant Cook, and Restaurant Food Preparer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Busser. A busser is a restaurant worker who helps wait staff by clearing tables, refilling drinks, and resetting tables for the next guests.
Host/Hostess. A host or hostess is the first person a customer sees when they enter the restaurant. They greet customers, take reservations, and manage the seating in the restaurant.
Server. A server is a restaurant employee who takes orders, serves food and drinks to customers, and processes payments.
Cook. A cook is a restaurant employee who prepares food according to recipes and customer requests.
Dishwasher. A dishwasher is a restaurant employee who cleans and sanitizes dishes, utensils, and other equipment in the restaurant.
Bartender. A bartender is a restaurant employee who prepares and serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Restaurant Food Runner? A1: A Restaurant Food Runner is an individual responsible for delivering orders from the kitchen to the dining room. Q2: What duties does a Restaurant Food Runner typically perform? A2: A Restaurant Food Runner typically performs tasks such as setting up tables, delivering food orders, bussing tables, and refilling drinks. Q3: What skills are important for a Restaurant Food Runner to possess? A3: Important skills for a Restaurant Food Runner to possess are good communication and customer service skills, the ability to multi-task, and the ability to work quickly and efficiently. Q4: What kind of environment does a Restaurant Food Runner work in? A4: A Restaurant Food Runner typically works in a restaurant environment with customers and other restaurant staff. Q5: How much does a Restaurant Food Runner typically earn? A5: The typical wage for a Restaurant Food Runner varies depending on the size of the restaurant and the region in which it is located. Generally, the wage ranges from minimum wage to around $15 per hour.