Final answer:
The essential question to ask a customer when they order steak is about their preferred doneness level. It ensures customer satisfaction and a tailored dining experience. For proper labeling, steaks should be measured in ounces if they are less than a pound.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a customer orders steak, the question you should always ask is, "How would you like your steak cooked?" This question pertains to the doneness level desired, which typically ranges from rare to well-done. Asking this ensures that the steak is prepared to the customer's preference, enhancing their dining experience. Furthermore, as most steaks are less than a pound, it is advisable to use ounces to label the packages of steak, providing a more accurate and customer-friendly indication of portion size.