Busser how-to

How to Pre-Bus Without Interrupting Guests

Good pre-bussing is invisible.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good pre-bussing is invisible. In short: watch; wait; ask, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Watch for finished plates.

  2. Wait for a pause.

  3. Ask politely.

  4. Clear quietly.

  5. Refill water.

  6. Move on.

Safety reminders for bussers

  • Lift bus tubs safely
  • Watch for spills
  • Announce “behind”
  • Handle broken glass carefully

Front of house · Back of house · Section · Turn · Cover · Bus tub: see the full busser glossary.

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