What is the Estimated Wait Time?

An estimated wait time is a predicted time when a guest will receive a table, be seated, have their order taken, or receive their food or service at a restaurant. Restaurants employ estimated wait times to control customer expectations and increase efficiency.

Using these techniques will improve restaurant efficiency-

• Employing self-service kiosks
• Agreeing to a return call
• Utilizing an alternative method like SMS or Webchat.

How Does Estimated Wait Time Work in Restaurants?

Restaurant wait times are usually estimated using a combination of the POS system, table management system, kitchen, and the number of guests within the restaurant at the time. Here's what is typically happening-

• A customer gets on the waiting list or orders and asks to be served.
• The system estimates capacity, load, and availability of the kitchen at the time.
• The system estimates how long the customer will need to wait for a table, order, or service.
• The estimate is relayed to the customer through an in-house display, a receipt, via SMS message, or by verbally telling them.
• The wait time estimate may be automatically adjusted as circumstances change.

For Example, a restaurant can inform the visitors that the average time the table will be reserved for is 20 minutes.