Room Service

Room service is a hotel amenity that allows guests to order food, beverages, or other items to their room, where it is delivered. Guests do not go to the hotel restaurant; instead, a staff member brings the order to the room, typically on a covered tray or a small cart.

This service is found mainly in higher-end hotels, particularly those rated four or five stars. Some budget hotels or hotels catering to business travelers do not offer room service, or replace it with vending machines for food and beverages on each floor.

How it works

Guests place orders by telephone from their room, by a printed menu left at the door, by mobile phone, or through a digital screen. The order is sent to the kitchen, and then an in-room dining attendant brings it to the room. The charge is usually added to the guest's main bill, payable at checkout. A service charge or delivery fee, typically higher than the restaurant rate, is also commonly added.

Menu and hours

The room service menu is usually smaller than the restaurant menu, because food must maintain its temperature during delivery. Dishes that take a long time to prepare or spoil easily are avoided. Large hotels may offer 24-hour service, but the night menu is reduced, typically featuring sandwiches, pastries, and beverages.

Economics of the service

Room service is costly to operate: it requires dedicated staff, an open kitchen, and specialized equipment, while orders are sometimes small. For this reason, many hotels have reduced or discontinued the service, especially during night hours. Some places have replaced it with partnerships with external restaurants or food delivery companies that bring orders to the door.