Credit Card Transfer Policy

Credit Card Transfer Policy (Updated 3/3/2017)

As part of our hospitality and service, at The Salty Pig we strive to transfer all guests’ open tabs as they are moved between locations at the restaurant (bar to table, inside to outside, etc.).  The transfer makes for a seamless experience for the guest, but only if the transfer of both the open tab and the credit card (when applicable) occur in a timely and organized fashion.

These guidelines are designed to streamline the process for us and ensure the safety of our guests’ property--remember that their credit/ debit card represents their cash, and misplacing it (or incorrectly transferring it) can represent loss of money.

Ownership of responsibility: Servers and bartenders are responsible for the guests in their sections--if a guest transfers out of their section/ bar, it’s the original server’s responsibility to make sure the tab is transferred along with them, as it’s not always clear to the second server that the guest has already enjoyed beverages and/or food. This is true for transfers from the bar, 500s, patio to inside and vice versa and every other scenario. The server/ bartender who originally takes care of the guest is responsible to make sure the check is transferred and that all information pertaining to the guest (allergies, food on the way, special occasion, etc) is communicated to the new server and/or manager.

Standing guests: Standing guests in the 500s should be served by the server who holds table 301 (unless otherwise mapped). Standing guests at/around 107 should be served by the server who holds 208. Standing guests without a ledge will generally approach the bartender and be served by the bar. If guests from 500s/ 107 approach and are served by the bar, the bartender should communicate with their server that they have taken care of the guest and what, if anything they need (water, mise en place, etc). The server will be the person held responsible for that tab so they must be fully informed. Bartenders should continue to request a credit card to keep tabs open for standing guests.

Reassuring guests: The goal of transferring a beverage tab is to make the dining experience more pleasant for the guest. If, for whatever reason, they would like to close their tab instead, they are more than welcome to do so. If the guests seem unsure, we should let them know we’ve got their back “We’ll combine your checks straight away, and a manager will be over with your credit card. Nothing will be charged here.” Sometimes guests will show concern for the team, and will want to close out to make sure they are tipping the bartenders. “Don’t worry about it, we all work together” is a good way to indicate that they don’t need to do that. Please don’t say “we pool our tips” unless someone specifically asks you. It’s technical jargon that we don’t need to introduce to the night. You may accept cash tips, but if possible make a good faith gesture to let them know they don’t have to.

Transferring guests with open tabs:

1. While walking guests who waited in house to their table, the HOST or other staff member seating the guests will inquire whether they started a tab and with whom, and ask for the last name on the card given to the bartender if applicable.
2. Upon returning to the host stand, the host (or server) will write down the table number, last name or any other notes on a notepad, and indicate to the manager that they did so.
3. A manager will ask the responsible party (bartender, server in the 500s, etc) for all of the requisite tabs/cards.  The MOD will then perform all transfers in POSI and physically return the credit cards to the guests. Credit cards will always be handled by managers. Any exceptions to this rule must be expressly stated by the MOD.