A guest has been waiting a long time for their meal. What should you do? Ignore the situation and hope they don't complain. Apologize for the delay check on the order and update the guest on its status. Offer them a free dessert without checking with your manager Avoid the table until their meal is ready.

The correct course of action is:<br /><br />**Apologize for the delay, check on the order, and update the guest on its status.**<br /><br />### Explanation:<br />1. **Acknowledging the issue:** Apologizing shows empathy and respect for the guest's time and experience.<br />2. **Taking action:** Checking on the order demonstrates that you are actively working to resolve the situation.<br />3. **Providing updates:** Keeping the guest informed helps manage their expectations and reassures them that their concern is being addressed.<br /><br />Avoid ignoring the situation or avoiding the table, as this can escalate frustration. Offering a free dessert without approval may violate company policies, so it’s best to follow proper procedures if compensation is warranted.