These questions are written for hiring a food runner specifically. Each one includes what you learn from asking it and what a strong answer sounds like.
1. How would you remember which dish goes to which seat at a table?
Why ask it: Seat accuracy is core to the role.
A strong answer: Describes using seat numbers, a mental map, and checking the ticket before they walk.
2. What would you do if you realize a dish you are carrying is wrong?
Why ask it: Tests honesty and quick action.
A strong answer: Stops, goes back to expo, explains the issue, and gets the correct plate.
3. How do you carry three or four plates safely?
Why ask it: A basic skill for the job.
A strong answer: Describes plate position, balance, using a tray when needed, and walking with awareness.
4. A guest asks about a dish you do not know well. What do you do?
Why ask it: Menu knowledge and allergy safety.
A strong answer: Doesn't guess, checks with the server or kitchen, and gives accurate information.
5. How would you handle bumping into a server who is carrying drinks?
Why ask it: Dining rooms are tight, and collisions happen.
A strong answer: Uses awareness calls like behind or corner, apologizes, and helps clean up if needed.
6. How do you stay organized during a busy rush?
Why ask it: Runners juggle many tasks at once.
A strong answer: Prioritizes hot food first, keeps track of table numbers, and communicates with expo.
7. How do you work with servers who need help?
Why ask it: Runners support the floor team.
A strong answer: Offers help proactively, listens, and avoids stepping on guest relationships.
8. What do you do when a guest complains about cold food?
Why ask it: Shows guest service instincts.
A strong answer: Apologizes, tells the server and expo, and gets a hot replacement quickly.
9. How do you handle allergy information?
Why ask it: Allergy errors are dangerous.
A strong answer: Checks the ticket for notes, confirms with the server, and delivers carefully to the right guest.
10. What do you do when the kitchen is slow and tables are waiting?
Why ask it: Tests communication and teamwork.
A strong answer: Updates servers, offers water or bread to guests, and keeps a positive attitude.
11. How do you feel about being on your feet for a whole shift?
Why ask it: The role is physical.
A strong answer: Is honest and describes experience or habits that help them stay energized.
12. Would you like to move into serving or bartending in the future?
Why ask it: Runners often become servers.
A strong answer: Expresses interest, asks about training, and commits to doing the runner job well first.