Final answer:
When running food, place it directly in front of the guest who ordered it for professional service. The "five-second rule" is a myth; dropped food should be considered contaminated.
Step-by-step explanation:
When running food to a table, you should place the item directly in front of the guest who ordered it. This ensures professional service and also minimizes confusion and disruption to the dining experience. While some might mistakenly believe in the "five-second rule," the truth is that once food is dropped on the floor, it is exposed to bacteria and is no longer safe to eat, thus should be replaced with a fresh serving.