Server Supplies You Can’t Live Without

When it comes to operating a restaurant, keeping track of supply inventory is one of the less exciting parts of the job. Front-of-house items that are used every day are easy to overlook in a busy restaurant. However, your servers always need to be equipped with essential supplies, just like kitchen staff. We’ve rounded up some of the most important and essential server supplies that will ensure an efficient restaurant.

Order Pads

Order pads are one of the most basic server supplies, but that doesn’t make them unimportant. Order pads enable servers to record orders accurately and input them efficiently. Because they are so important, you don’t want to neglect ordering them until you’ve run out. Order pads and GuestChecks™ are often available carbon and carbonless, giving you the option of keeping copies. They are also lined to keep your servers organized and feature a menu prompt to help your servers upsell items.

Apparel

When it comes to apparel, all your waitstaff should be dressed similarly. This helps establish and maintain your brand image, and it also fosters team spirit amongst the staff. Whether you are a fast-casual or an upscale restaurant, your staff will need branded apparel.

Consider the following items for your staff:

• Shirts
• Aprons
• Hats
• Stickers
• Buttons

All apparel items can be ordered branded, so your staff touts your brand name as they serve your customers. Branded apparel can also be worn by back-of-house staff to show unity.

Check Holders

Check holders may be a server supply you have forgotten about. However, they are immensely useful when organizing and collecting multiple checks. They can be practical and stylish whilst keeping receipts, credit cards, and cash securely together. This way, your staff won’t mix up cards and receipts, and all transactions can be handled with the customer’s best interest in mind. You may even consider branding your check holders for an extra bit of marketing.

Trays

Server trays are essential for assisting your waitstaff in food delivery. They allow your servers to carry more items to the table, minimizing serving time and allowing your customers to enjoy their meals. While you may think buying trays is a one-and-done sort of thing, it’s not. Trays can crack and break, meaning you need to keep up with your supplies and order new ones so your waitstaff isn’t having to compensate.