Getting close...

When I'm doing my last pre-bus at a table, I'll check in with them and see if they're done or need anything else. Remember, I strive to approach the table as few times as possible and get as much done as possible with each trip.

Now if they do order another drink, and I’m slammed, what I sometimes do is offer to go ahead and drop their check. This depends on my relationship to the table (if it’s relaxed and cool), and whether it looks like this will be the last drink. Again, I only do this if I’m particularly busy and need to get that table out of play. I preface it by saying, "Take your time with these drinks, I'm going to go ahead and grab your check before I forget. You can let me know when you’re ready or if you’d like anything else.”

Now when it comes to splitting checks....I really make an effort to get everyone on one check.

Unfortunately you have very little control over this, and it requires some real finessing. The best way I've found is to just assume they're all on one check (unless it's obvious), and drop one check like it's normal. Then sometimes they'll just go along with it.

One thing I typically do not do is figure out who how the checks are being split up before or during the meal. Some people do this, and it works. I find it is more to keep track of and only adds stress. I prefer to get it figured out all at the end with pen and paper in hand to take notes.

*Although sometimes if seat 1 orders a drink for seat 2, I’ll just ring it in under seat 1 and make sure I’m there to run the drink out.

Now after I drop the checks, I creep more than usual.

Typically, I don't try to hide the fact that I'm looking at a table, but if I start hovering over people's tables after dropping the checks, they'll feel rushed. I never, ever want to make a table feel rushed.

There's an art to moving people along while not making them feel like you are kicking them out. Generally, I direct guests to the next stage in the dining experience without expectation of how long it will take them.