- Have you dined at our restaurant before?
- What made you apply here rather than another restaurant?
- What made you want to work in the restaurant industry?
- Why would you make a good addition to our team?
- What do you like about working in a restaurant?
But choosing candidates can be a tricky and stressful process. Not only do you have to prepare for the interview, ask the right restaurant interview questions, and guide the interview process, but you also have to decide who’s a fit, who’s passionate, and who’s answering honestly – and not just following a script.
Here are the 19 most important restaurant interview questions that will help you simplify the interview process, fill open jobs, and build the best possible team.
These include everything from server interview questions to ask and interview questions for managers to second interview questions and even some great follow-up questions.
FOH Interview Questions
How would you keep track of multiple requests?
Assesses multitasking and organizational skills.
Interview Questions for Fronts of House Staff:
Reveals suitability for the vacancy.
What would you do if a customer broke an expensive glass?
Tests communication and customer service abilities.
When interviewing for a front of house position, there are certain questions to keep in mind to help you prepare for your interview process that are unique to this type of work. By using these questions as a guideline, you can be more prepared for upcoming interviews. 1
Common Restaurant Interview Questions and Answers
A candidate will always feel nervous at the start of an interview. By asking them to provide more information about themselves, you help break the ice.
When a candidate answers this question, here’s what you should be looking for:
Possible red flags include candidates not having much to say, repeating what’s on their restaurant resume, and (for certain roles) being shy.
But be careful. Some candidates may take more time to warm up to you, so don’t make your full assessment of their personality until the end of the interview.
A server calls in sick at the last minute. What would you do to ensure a smooth day of service when you’re understaffed?
Why it’s important to ask: This question gives you insight into the candidate’s problem solving skills.
What to look for: Look for a solution that keeps guests a top priority and supports the short-staffed FOH team — like the manager stepping in to work the role (this is where cross-training comes in handy!) or making rounds on the floor to apologize to guests for slow service.
FAQ
How do I prepare for the front of my house interview?
- Seven Great Interview Questions for the Front of the House. …
- Why Should I Hire You? …
- Describe Your Favorite Meal. …
- Why Do You Want to Work Here? …
- What is Your Five-year Plan? …
- What Do You Love About Working in a Restaurant? …
- What Do You Like About Working in a Team? …
- What is Your Biggest Strength?
What are the 7 most common interview answers?
- Why do you enjoy working in the restaurant industry? …
- What do you think are the most important skills for this restaurant role? …
- What does excellent customer service mean to you? …
- How do you handle conflicts with coworkers? …
- Describe a time you managed an impatient customer in a restaurant.
What should I expect at my front office interview?
- Where do you see yourself in five years? …
- What are your strengths/weaknesses? …
- Why should we hire you? …
- Tell me about yourself / your past work experience. …
- Why do you want to work for us? …
- What are your salary expectations? …
- What skills or experience will help you succeed in this role?
