When is it appropriate to pre-bus a table?

• A. Never; never pre-bus.
• B. Only after all guests have left.
• C. Before seating guests.
• D. During downtimes between courses or when you have a moment without guests.

Answer: (D)

Pre-bussing is clearing and resetting a table during natural pauses in the dining flow so the space stays tidy without interrupting guests. The best time to do this is during downtimes between courses or whenever you have a moment without guests. Clearing away used dishes, wiping surfaces, and restocking items in those moments keeps the table ready for the next guests, helps the service run smoothly, and reduces crowding later on. It avoids disturbing diners mid-meal and prevents a pileup of cleanup at the end of service. Pre-bussing before seating or waiting until everyone leaves would waste opportunities to keep the table prepared and the flow moving.