In the context of restaurant service, what is 'up-selling'?

Up-selling is a sales technique used in the restaurant industry where staff encourage customers to purchase more expensive items or upgrades to their meal. This can involve suggesting premium menu items, adding extras, or upsizing portions. The goal of up-selling is not only to enhance the customer experience by introducing them to higher-quality options but also to increase the restaurant’s revenue.

When employees successfully up-sell, they not only provide customers with a potentially more satisfying meal but also contribute positively to the restaurant's bottom line. This practice relies heavily on the employees' ability to communicate effectively about the menu and to understand customer preferences, making it highly beneficial for both the service team and the restaurant as a whole.