5 Tips to Optimize Your Restaurant Waitlist Time

Tip #1: Analyze Your Waitlist Peak Hours

You can't improve what you don't measure. Use QueueFast waitlist analytics to identify:

• Busiest days for your waitlist
• Critical time slots
• Actual average service time

With this data, adjust your staffing and anticipate waitlist rushes.

Tip #2: Remote Waitlist Pre-positioning

Allow customers to join your waitlist before physically arriving. Via your website, Google Maps, or even Instagram, they can join the waitlist from home.

Result: when they arrive, their waitlist time is almost over.

Tip #3: Proactive Waitlist Communication

Don't wait for the customer to ask "Is it almost ready?". Send automatic waitlist updates:

• "You're 5th on the waitlist, about 15 minutes"
• "Only 2 people ahead of you on the waitlist"
• "Your table is ready!"

This waitlist transparency transforms waiting into a positive experience.

Tip #4: Optimize Table Turnover for Faster Waitlist

Waitlist time directly depends on how quickly tables free up. Some ideas:

• Offer pay-at-table (QR code)
• Train staff for quick clearing
• Avoid overly long menus that extend meals

Tip #5: Create a Pleasant Waitlist Experience

If being on a waitlist is inevitable, make it enjoyable:

• Offer an aperitif to customers on the waitlist
• Provide the menu to browse while on the waitlist
• Create a comfortable waiting area

Conclusion

A long waitlist is not inevitable. With the right waitlist software and practices, you can reduce wait time AND make it more bearable. Your customers will thank you with their loyalty.