Top 25 Olive Garden Italian Restaurants Server Interview Questions & Answers

Getting hired as a server at Olive Garden Italian Restaurants means acing the interview. You’ll need to demonstrate exceptional customer service skills, in-depth menu knowledge, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

I’ve put together the top 25 most commonly asked Olive Garden server interview questions, along with sample answers to help you prepare. With these tips, you’ll walk into that interview room feeling confident and land the job!

1. Why do you want to work as a server at Olive Garden?

This question tests your knowledge of the company and your motivation for wanting the job. Olive Garden looks for team members truly passionate about the brand.

Sample Answer: I’m excited to work for a company with such a strong heritage and emphasis on hospitality. Olive Garden’s commitment to making guests feel like family aligns with my service philosophy. I’m inspired by the training programs and opportunities for growth within the company.

2. What do you know about our unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks policy?

Olive Garden built its brand on unlimited free soup, salad, and breadsticks. They need servers who understand the significance of this offering. Show you’ve done your research.

Sample Answer: I know your unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks policy is signature to Olive Garden’s brand. It’s an important part of the guest experience. As a server, I would ensure guests always have fresh breadsticks and refills of their favorite soups and salads.

3. How would you handle a dissatisfied guest?

Dissatisfied guests are inevitable in hospitality Share how you’d apologize and remedy issues professionally

Sample Answer First, I’d apologize sincerely and determine the source of dissatisfaction I’d replace the dish immediately or remove it from the bill if they prefer I’d notify a manager if needed but always remain calm and courteous. The goal is getting the guest satisfied before they leave.

4. A large party arrives on a busy night without a reservation. What do you do?

This tests your ability to think on your feet during challenging situations. Show how you’d seat the party while managing your other tables.

Sample Answer I would greet the party warmly and explain we’ll need to get a table ready as they didn’t have a reservation I’d offer appetizers and beverages while they wait in the lobby. I’d then communicate with my manager and bussers to quickly clean and set a table for the group. Throughout, I’d check on the party and my existing tables to ensure excellent service.

5. How would you respond if a guest complained about receiving the wrong dish?

Expect scenarios testing your service recovery skills. Share how you’d apologize, correct errors, and learn from mistakes.

Sample Answer: I’d immediately apologize and ask if they’d like the correct dish or something else entirely. I’d have the kitchen expedite a replacement meal. I’d remove the wrong item from their bill. Finally, I’d discuss the issue with the kitchen team to prevent recurrence. The goal is making it right and retaining guest trust.

6. A child is crying loudly at one of your tables. What do you do?

Kids can be a challenge for servers. Show you’d address issues discreetly while maintaining a family-friendly environment.

Sample Answer: I’d approach the table calmly and ask the parents if I can get anything to help, like crayons or a special treat for the child. If the issue persists, I’d speak to a manager about options like relocating them to a more private area. My priority is always keeping our restaurant family-friendly for all guests.

7. How would you stay organized while serving multiple tables?

Serving multiple tables requires stellar organizational skills. Share proven methods for prioritizing tasks and orders.

Sample Answer: I’d greet each new table promptly and write orders down carefully. I’d group tasks together, like placing orders in batches rather than individually. I’d anticipate table needs like pre-bussing and refills. Staying calm, focused, and methodical, even during rushes, helps me juggle multiple tables seamlessly.

8. This job requires lifting trays that can weigh 25 lbs. Can you perform this essential function?

Server roles have physical demands like lifting heavy trays. Assure the interviewer you can handle these responsibilities safely.

Sample Answer: Yes, I am comfortable lifting 25 lb trays. I have experience carrying loaded trays at my current serving job. I maintain physical fitness with exercise that keeps me prepared for the physical aspects of serving. If ever I felt uncomfortable lifting a tray, I’d ask a colleague for assistance.

9. What would you do if you noticed your co-workers arguing during a shift?

This screens for teamwork skills. Share how you’d defuse conflicts and maintain composure on the floor.

Sample Answer: If coworkers argued, I’d politely suggest we talk after the shift to minimize disruption. In the moment, I’d redirect our focus to serving guests. I understand disputes occur but handling them professionally ensures we provide good service, even in difficult moments. Guest experience is always the priority.

10. How would you build rapport and connect with your guests?

Building guest relationships is key for servers. Share your best practices for meaningful interactions.

Sample Answer: I always introduce myself by name and chat briefly to understand the occasion. I may ask if they’ve dined with us before and provide menu recommendations based on their needs. Using guest names and sharing sincere smiles helps me make connections. My goal is ensuring every guest feels well taken care of and excited to return.

11. Why should we hire you over other applicants?

Use this chance to highlight your top strengths and achievements. Share why you’d excel as an Olive Garden server.

Sample Answer: I have a proven track record delivering exceptional hospitality service. My communication skills allow me to develop customer rapport and handle issues diplomatically. I’m eager to learn and grow, which enables me to bring value and dedication to the team. I’d love to leverage my serving expertise to provide fantastic dining experiences for Olive Garden guests.

12. How do you ensure guests have an enjoyable dining experience?

The guest experience makes or breaks restaurants. Share your approach for delighting every table.

Sample Answer: My priority is making every guest feel welcomed, valued, and cared for. I achieve this through anticipating needs, offering sincere recommendations, and ensuring all food comes out promptly and accurately. If any issues arise, I handle them swiftly and professionally. I love sharing my passion for service to create an enjoyable, memorable dining experience for each guest.

13. How do you make each guest feel like they’re dining in your home?

Olive Garden prides itself on hospitality and family-like warmth. Share how you’d personally connect with guests.

Sample Answer: I treat guests as if they were family coming to my dinner table at home. I focus conversations on their lives, interests, and celebrations, not just orders. I ensure their water and breadsticks stay refilled, so they feel cared for. I go the extra mile, like fetching a child crayons or a birthday guest a special treat. Every detail aims to make guests feel valued.

14. How do you stay motivated and energized throughout long shifts?

Servers often work long hours on their feet. Discuss what drives you to maintain high energy.

Sample Answer: I stay motivated by focusing on providing excellent hospitality and creating guest connections. My genuine passion for service keeps me energized. If I ever feel tired, I drink water, take a short break if possible, and remind myself why I love this work. Most importantly, I rely on my team for support to power through together.

15. What is your greatest weakness as a server?

Be honest while positioning weaknesses positively. Share how you work to improve.

Sample Answer: Early in my career, I struggled with being too meticulous and slow. However, over time I learned how to balance providing an excellent experience with well-paced service, even in rushes. When I identify a development area, I focus on improvement through mentorship and practice. Pursuing growth makes me a stronger server.

16. Why do you want to be a server, versus another restaurant position?

Show your passion for server responsibilities specifically. Share your enthusiasm for guest interactions.

Sample Answer: I enjoy the fast-paced nature of serving and providing direct hospitality. The constant guest interaction motivates me. I love exceeding expectations and bonding through attentive service. While I appreciate all restaurant roles, serving allows me to share my passion for creating memorable dining experiences.

17. How do you stay updated on our newest menu items, promotions, and seasonal offerings?

Olive Garden evolves its offerings. Discuss how you’d keep your menu knowledge sharp.

Sample Answer: I read corporate communications to learn about specials and new menu launches. I also chat with coworkers to hear their first-hand experiences with new dishes. Whenever possible, I try new or updated items, so I can share relevant descriptions and recommendations with guests. Staying current ensures I provide the best service.

18. What do you do if you see a coworker giving poor service?

This gauges your judgment, discretion, and teamwork. Explain how you’d constructively address issues