What is the first action you should take when greeting a guest at Twin Peaks?

• A. Ask for their name and table number before saying hello.
• B. Offer a beverage before greeting.
• C. Take their order while they stand.
• D. Greet them within 60 seconds with a warm smile and introduce yourself and the location.

Answer: (D)

Starting with a prompt, friendly welcome is the key. Saying hello within the first 60 seconds, paired with a warm smile and a quick self-introduction that includes the location, immediately sets a welcoming tone and shows the guest they’re in good hands. This quick, personal connection helps establish trust and makes the rest of the service flow smoothly, because the guest knows who is serving them and where they are dining. A genuine greeting also signals attentiveness and respect for the guest’s time.

If you wait to greet, or jump straight into other tasks, you miss that instant connection and can come across as transactional. Offering a drink before greeting skips the human touch, which can feel pushy. Taking an order while the guest is standing defeats the hosting sequence—guests are greeted first, then presented with the menu and seating flow. The best practice is to greet promptly, smile, and introduce yourself and the location to set a positive, guest-centered tone from the start.