How long after food is sold should food running begin?

Food running should begin as soon as possible after food is sold, and the industry standard often suggests around 30 seconds. This timeframe ensures that the food remains hot, fresh, and appealing for the guest. A quick turnaround is crucial in the restaurant business to enhance the dining experience, as serving food promptly can reflect the establishment's efficiency and commitment to quality service. Delaying the food running longer than this may affect the meal's temperature and quality, potentially leading to customer dissatisfaction.

While other timeframes such as 1 minute, 1.5 minutes, or 2 minutes could theoretically allow for food to be brought to the table, they are generally considered too long in a fast-paced dining environment where customers expect timely service. Therefore, commencing food running within 30 seconds aligns with best practices for hospitality and service excellence.