Abstract: A wireless maitre d' system and method for providing interactive two-way communication between patrons and restaurant service personnel who have direct interaction with the patrons during restaurant encounters. The wireless maitre d' system includes a first wireless device and a second wireless device. The first wireless device establishes an interactive two-way electronic communication between at least one patron and at least one restaurant service personnel by a wireless communication link, and the at least one restaurant service personnel directly interacts with the at least one patron during a restaurant encounter. The second wireless device engages in the interactive two-way communication between the at least one service personnel and the at least one patron by the wireless communication link. The interactive two-way electronic communication includes an order for a retail item from the at least one patron to the at least one restaurant service personnel.

Abstract: An improved wireless maitre d' system and method which provide electronic interactive communication with a waiter/waitress for expediting and resolving menu orders made by local and remote patrons. The system includes a pager unit configured to fit in the palm of a waiter/waitress with multi-line scrolling and buffer capabilities for receiving and transmitting messages. The pager is programmed to provide a restaurant menu with message receiving and transmission features for sending corrected orders by patrons directly to kitchen personnel. Similar features are provided for patrons via a combination menu driven touch screen and transaction monitor. The system includes on-line Internet applications with miscellaneous options. The touch screen includes menu items linked to caloric expenditure data and health related menu information as approved by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Diabetic Association (ADA).