In fine dining service, one rule is taught to every new waiter: serve food from the guest's left, and clear plates from the right. It looks like simple etiquette, but there are practical reasons behind it.

Why Serve From the Left?

• Most guests are right-handed and hold the knife in the right hand, so approaching from the left keeps you out of their way
• The guest can see the plate arriving and is not surprised
• Service is consistent around the table, so every guest has the same experience

Why Clear From the Right?

• Used plates and cutlery sit on the guest's right after eating, so clearing from that side is natural and smooth
• The server moves around the table in one direction, avoiding collisions with other staff
• It keeps the flow of service quiet and professional

Note on Drinks

Beverages are normally served and cleared from the right, because glasses are placed on the right-hand side of the cover.

Master Fine Dining Standards

Details like this separate a good waiter from a great one – and they are what international hotels and restaurants look for. Learn table setting, service sequence and guest handling in our Food & Beverage Service Course. Contact us to enrol.