What approach should a server take when recommending dishes?

Being enthusiastic and knowledgeable when recommending dishes is essential in a restaurant setting, as it significantly enhances the dining experience for guests. Enthusiasm conveys passion about the menu, which can be contagious and encourages guests to try new items they might not have considered otherwise. A deep understanding of the menu allows servers to offer insightful recommendations, catering to specific dietary preferences and tastes.

This approach builds trust and helps create a rapport with the guests, making them feel valued and cared for. When a server is well-informed about the dishes, including ingredients, preparation methods, and flavor profiles, they can effectively guide diners to options that they might enjoy, enhancing their overall satisfaction.

In contrast, recommending the most expensive items may come off as pushy or motivated by profit rather than the customer's needs, focusing only on items on sale disregards broader options that could be more appealing, and relying solely on personal favorites may not align with the guests’ tastes or dietary restrictions. Hence, the most effective approach is to combine enthusiasm with product knowledge to create an enjoyable and personalized dining experience.