Why we need this standard operating procedure

1. How to clear soiled plates and glasses
WHY WE NEED THIS STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Procedure Steps Standard
1
Get a tray
 Get a tray from a side a station closest to you or any tray storing area in the vicinity.
 Ensure that the tray
2 Proceed to the table
 Maintain positive body language and good posture when passing through the main dining
area.
3
Approach the guest
table
 Approach the guest table from the right side.
 Maintain a 12 inch distance to the guest and the edge of the table.
4 Inform the guest
 Excuse yourself and let the guest know that you will be clearing any soiled glasses or
crockery by saying “excuse me Mr. Mark may I clear plate and glasses?

5 Clear soiled glasses
 Pick up the soiled glass from the table and carefully place it on the tray.
 Always ensure that you are moving in a controlled and stable manner to not harm
yourself or your guest.
 Place the soiled glasses on the tray in an orderly manner. Heavy items need to be placed
on the tray on the side closest to you and lighter items may be placed on the other side.
 The same distinction needs to be done with small and tall glasses where the tall ones are
being place on the closer to you side and the small ones on the other side give their
weight is the same.
 Be discrete at all times and avoid excessive intrusions of the guest’s space.
6
Clear the spoiled
plates
 Pick up the soiled plates from the table.
 Always ensure that you are moving in a controlled and stable manner to not harm
yourself or your guest.
 Manage your space by scraping any excess food onto the plate that will be on the top.
 Place heavy items on the inner part of the tray.
 Be discrete at all times and avoid excessive intrusion of the guest’s space.
7
Table clearance after
the main course
 When the main course has been consumed and requires clearance as per the above
mentioned, the following extra steps need to be taken into consideration.
 Side plates and side knifes need to be removed.
 Butter and bread basket need to be removed.
 Cruets where applicable need to be removed.
 This needs to be done in conjunction with the clearing of soiled glasses and plates.
 Always confirm with the guest before removing any of the above mentioned items.
8 Leave the table
 Excuse yourself by saying “thank you for letting me clear the items away.
 Communicate the message in a clear and accommodating manner
 Leave the table.