Crumbing down

Crumbing down

Propel Last Updated Apr 29, 2023

Crumbing down involves removing any crumbs or food debris from the table using a crumber or a folded napkin. Here are some specific techniques for crumbing down the table:

  1. Wait for the right moment: Crumbing down should be done discreetly, without interrupting the conversation or disturbing the other guests. Wait for a lull in the conversation or a pause between courses before approaching the table.
  2. Use a crumber or folded napkin: A crumber is a small, flat instrument with a blade on one end and a brush on the other, designed specifically for removing crumbs from the table. If a crumber is not available, a folded napkin can be used instead.
  3. Start at the top: Begin at the top of the table and work your way down, using the crumber or napkin to gently sweep any crumbs or food debris towards the edge of the table.
  4. Use a brush or your hand: Once the crumbs have been gathered, use a small brush or your hand to sweep them into a small pile or into a crumb tray.
  5. Be careful around guests: Be careful not to touch the guests or disturb their plates or cutlery when crumbing down the table. Avoid crumbing down plates that still have food on them, and be sure to avoid any glasses or dishes that are still in use.
  6. Be thorough: Take the time to ensure that the table is completely crumbed down, with no crumbs or food debris left behind. A crumbed down table is a sign of good service and attention to detail, and can enhance the overall dining experience for the guests.

In summary, crumbing down the table is a simple but important technique used in fine dining to keep the table clean and tidy between courses or at the end of the meal. By following these techniques, servers can ensure that the crumbing down process is efficient, discreet, and thorough, while still being attentive to the needs of the guests.