What occurs during the "Howdy" step?

During the "Howdy" step, the server's primary focus is on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the guests. This involves greeting them with a smile and an enthusiastic welcome right as they arrive. It's essential to establish a connection immediately, so suggesting drinks and appetizers helps to engage the customers and get them settled into their dining experience. This proactive approach not only sets a positive tone but also encourages guests to feel valued and attended to from the very beginning.

In contrast to the other options, which do not encompass the complete essence of the "Howdy" step, the chosen answer emphasizes the importance of an immediate and friendly interaction. Making small talk before taking orders can come in later steps but is not the primary focus during the initial greeting. Recognizing only first-time guests is too narrow and does not foster a consistent standard of service for all guests. Similarly, waiting for customers to signal for service is contrary to the proactive nature of the "Howdy" step, which is designed to promote initiative and engagement from the server.