What Comes First: Food Or Service?

We all remember those moments when we received extra sauce and napkins or were pleasantly surprised by a complimentary appetizer or dessert. These small acts of kindness make us feel seen, heard, cared for, and most importantly, valued. Such moments restore our faith in humanity and create a positive and memorable experience.

In the ongoing debate of what comes first, food or service, a simple truth emerges - a warm greeting goes a long way.

In any business, whether it’s a restaurant, coffee shop, nail salon, or massage parlor, human interaction precedes any service offered or provided. The “first impression” experience begins with the initial interaction between the customer and the business, which can even occur before the customer sets foot on the premises. For a restaurant, it may start with a phone call made to reserve a table.

Service often becomes the defining factor that compels a customer to write a review. Those who take the time to leave reviews usually have strong opinions - they either loved or hated their experience. Average experiences rarely prompt reviews. People feel a need to express either an unforgettable positive experience that they feel compelled to share or extreme dissatisfaction that serves a warning to others.

When the food is good but the service exceeds expectations, customers are motivated to share their positive experience and express gratitude. However, if the food is enjoyable but the service falls short, it often leads to negative reviews because the service outweighs the gastronomic experience. The same principle applies to any business that offers all kinds of services. For example, a 15 minute late start to a massage without any acknowledgement can make a client feel disrespected and undervalued. However, a business that acknowledges the delay, apologizes, and goes the extra mile to compensate for the lost time can turn a negative experience into a positive one, fostering customer loyalty and return visits.

Ultimately, all businesses, regardless of the services they offer, should prioritize excellent service. Human interaction builds the bridge between clients and businesses. The initial greeting is an invaluable opportunity to create a positive and lasting impression.

In the food versus service dilemma, the answer is clear: service takes precedence. Small gestures, genuine interactions, and attentive service create a sense of value and leave a lasting impact on customers. By prioritizing exceptional service, businesses can forge meaningful connections with their clientele and foster loyalty. Remember, a warm greeting and a sincere smile can make all the difference in creating a positive and priceless impression.