Eating out is supposed to be a treat of good food, good company and someone else doing the dishes. But it only remains fun when everyone knows the rules of restaurant etiquette.
Let’s talk about the little things that make dining out pleasant and a bit classy.
1. Make a Reservation (If Needed)
If your favorite spot is a busy one, booking ahead may be a smart move. Walking in without one may cause you unnecessary delays.
Keep in mind, though, that your reservation only works when you show up when you said you would. Many restaurants will only hold a table for 10 to 15 minutes before offering it to the next hungry group.
If traffic is crazy and you see yourself being a few minutes late, call them and they’ll find a way to fit you in. The same goes for a change in group size. A table for six is different from one for four. Call ahead, and the staff may be able to move you to a more suitable spot.
2. Dress the Part
I consider overdressing for occasions an outdated etiquette. But that isn’t to say that you should show up for dinner in gym shorts and flip-flops, unless, of course, it’s a beach cafe.
The idea is to match your outfit to the restaurant and the occasion’s atmosphere. A fine dining spot with work colleagues may call for smart casual attire or a collared shirt and dress. On the other hand, a casual bistro with friends is more relaxed.
By dressing properly, you show respect for the place and your dining companions. You’ll also be more comfortable and confident.
3. Treat the Staff With Respect
Everyone in the restaurant is doing their best to make your meal happen. It, therefore, goes without saying that you should treat them with respect. That’s basic social etiquette.
Be on your best behavior from the moment you step through the door. Greet the staff and wait to be seated.
If you need something, don’t shout from across the room or snap your fingers. Instead, raise your hand slightly or wait until someone swings by. It baffles me how often people skip these basics in the rush to get a meal.
4. Ordering
Scan the menu immediately when you sit down so that you are ready when the server comes by, especially if the place is busy.
Let them know about any allergies or dietary needs, but be considerate with custom requests. Try not to rebuild a dish from scratch.
If you’re unsure what to go for, it’s fine to ask. Servers know the menu inside out and will be more than happy to recommend something based on what you like.
5. Phones Away
We all love perfect food photos; at least I do. Snap it, post it and then put your phone down to be present with the people you’re dining with. They’ll appreciate your full attention.
Nothing screams ‘I’m bored’ like scrolling through your phone when someone’s talking to you. If you need to take a call, excuse yourself and step outside.
6. Remember Table Manners
Table manners still apply, especially when dining out. Chew with your mouth closed and be mindful of how you use your cutlery. Don’t wave your fork around when talking.
It’s also about awareness. Don’t slurp and avoid talking with your mouth full. And when you need something across the table, ask for it to be passed.
Good table manners are a way to ensure everyone enjoys their meal without being uncomfortable.
7. Keep it Low
The clink of glasses and hum of conversations is enough noise in a restaurant. What they don’t need is your laughter carrying three tables over.
Your voice should be at a level where your table can hear you comfortably, but you are not a nuisance to the people seated next to you. You are there to enjoy yourself, but so is everyone else.
8. Handle Complaints Gracefully
Mistakes happen even in the best restaurants. At times, your server will get your order wrong, or the dish just won’t taste right. Address it politely when it happens.
You are likely to get the message across far better with a calm and clear explanation than when you raise your voice.
Tell your server something like: ‘I’m sorry, I ordered the chicken and not salmon. Is it possible to change it?’
Most of the time, they’ll be eager to fix the issue quickly.
9. Tip Fairly
Don’t be that guy. Tip the servers and do so fairly.
10. Don’t Overstay
A final cup of coffee after dinner is perfectly fine. But holding a table long after you’ve finished eating can keep other guests waiting, especially during peak hours.
Read the room. If you notice a line forming at the door or if the staff are politely checking in more often, it might be a good time to wrap things up.
More Than the Meal
Great dining, especially outdoors, is more than what is on the plate. It’s the atmosphere you help create. With a little respect and awareness, you can turn your dinner into an experience worth savoring.
Featured image from Unsplash.
