What does 'table turnover' refer to?

Table turnover refers to the rate at which a table is occupied by customers and then vacated for new customers. This metric is essential for restaurants because it directly impacts the establishment's efficiency and profitability. A high turnover rate indicates that a restaurant can serve more customers in a given period, maximizing revenue potential. Understanding table turnover helps restaurant managers determine seating strategies, optimize staffing levels, and enhance dining experiences by balancing customer satisfaction with operational productivity.

The other choices do not reflect the concept of table turnover. For example, the time taken to set a table is related to service efficiency but does not address the occupancy and vacancy aspect of a table. The number of tables available in the restaurant pertains to capacity, while the amount of time a table remains reserved revolves around reservation management rather than the turnover process. Hence, focusing on occupancy and vacancy captures the essence of managing dining space effectively in the hospitality sector.