How to Take an Order in a Fast Food Restaurant

Last Updated: November 13, 2021

Taking an order is not as easy as one might think. When working in a business requiring you to take orders, it is imperative that you first know what you are doing.

Please note: This article is geared more toward fast food order taking. Being a server in a fine dining establishment is quite different.

Steps

1
Smile and greet the customer.
2
Ask the customer if they are ready to order.

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3
Listen carefully as the customer places his or her order.
4
Repeat the order to the guest.
5
Enter the order as the customer tells it to you.
6
Read the order back to the customer.
7
Total the order.
8
Tell the customer the amount due.
9
Collect payment from the customer.
10
Give the receipt to the customer.
11
Thank the customer.

Community Q&A

Question

What if I mess up the customer's order?

Tom De Backer

Top Answerer

Don't worry, it happens to everyone sometimes. Just excuse yourself, say you got it wrong and ask the customer to repeat it. Don't be nervous, just be kind.
Question

How do I communicate with the person who is taking my order?

Community Answer

Just be respectful, polite, and make sure that you are as clear as possible. Make sure to say "thank you" after you finish.
Question

How do I take an order from a customer when multiple people are all talking and trying to place their orders?

Tom De Backer

Top Answerer

You can politely say: "Excuse me, but could just one person do the talking? It's impossible to listen to everyone all at once."

Warnings

Expect that from time you will encounter an irate customer. Always deal with them politely. Don't allow them to get you angry or upset!

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Every business has a set of rules explaining what is expected of an order taker. Always read and follow these rules carefully.

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Talking too much can put you in jeopardy too. Remember the syllable rule. If a person talks too much, respond with one syllable words as that will shorten the conversation. If they are quiet, use multiple syllable words as it will comfort the customer. It's all about doing MORE business then the order taker who has more shifts!

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