How to Serve Tea or Coffee in Restaurant (SOP)

Serving tea and coffee in a restaurant might seem simple, but it’s an essential part of creating a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience. Guests love a warm, perfectly presented cup of tea or coffee after a meal. For waiters and servers, following a clear Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) ensures that every cup is served with professionalism and care.

Let’s look at the steps to serve tea or coffee properly in a restaurant setting.

Step 1: Take the Order Politely

Start by asking guests politely:

“Would you like to end your meal with some tea or coffee?”

If the restaurant has a menu for hot beverages, offer it and answer any questions.

Step 2: Clarify the Order

Guests might have preferences. Clarify their order by asking:

• For coffee: “Would you like it black, with milk, or with cream?”

• For tea: “Would you prefer black tea, green tea, or herbal tea?”

Confirm the order to avoid mistakes:

“So that’s one black coffee with a little milk and one green tea, is that correct?”

Step 3: Prepare the Tray or Service Area

Before serving, make sure you have everything ready:

• Clean cups and saucers

• Spoons or stirrers

• Sugar, sweeteners, and milk or cream

• Napkins

• Hot water for tea or freshly brewed coffee

• A clean, neat tray if using one

A well-prepared tray avoids trips back and forth and shows professionalism.

Step 4: Brew the Tea or Coffee Correctly

• Coffee: Brew a fresh pot or cup. Avoid serving stale or cold coffee.

• Tea: Use hot water and steep the tea for the correct time (2–5 minutes depending on the tea type). Avoid over-brewing, which can make tea bitter.

Step 5: Arrange Everything Neatly

On the tray or table:

• Place the cup on the saucer, handle facing the guest’s right hand.

• Put the spoon to the right of the cup, handle facing outward.

• Add a small jug of milk or cream if requested.

• Place sugar or sweetener on the tray or table within reach.

• Add a clean napkin.

A neat presentation shows attention to detail.

Step 6: Approach the Table with a Smile

Carry the tray steadily and approach the guest’s right side. Smile and make eye contact, adding a friendly comment if appropriate:

“Here’s your green tea. Please enjoy!”

Step 7: Place the Cup Gently in Front of the Guest

Place the cup and saucer carefully in front of the guest. Avoid reaching across or leaning over the table. Place additional items—like milk or sugar—within easy reach.

Step 8: Offer to Pour (for Tea)

If you’re serving loose-leaf tea or a teapot, offer to pour the first cup for the guest:

“May I pour your tea for you?”

Pour gently and with care, without splashing or overfilling.

Step 9: Check If Anything Else Is Needed

Before leaving, ask:

“Is there anything else I can get for you?”

This shows attentiveness and ensures guests are fully satisfied.

Step 10: Thank the Guests and Step Back

Thank guests politely:

“Thank you. Please enjoy your tea.”

Then step back to give them space to relax and enjoy their drink.

Additional Tips for Tea and Coffee Service

• Keep hot drinks hot: Don’t let tea or coffee sit too long before serving.

• Use clean, polished cups and cutlery: cleanliness shows respect for guests.

• Be mindful of allergies: Some guests might prefer non-dairy milk like soy or almond—offer alternatives if available.

• Never rush the service: tea and coffee time is a relaxing moment—let guests enjoy it.

Conclusion

Serving tea and coffee is a small but meaningful gesture in the dining experience. By following these steps—greeting politely, preparing neatly, and serving carefully—you can make guests feel truly welcome and appreciated.

A proper SOP for tea and coffee service helps avoid mistakes and adds to the restaurant’s reputation for warm, professional hospitality. It’s the little details that make all the difference!