Dining out is a fun experience, but it comes with a few unspoken rules that help keep things pleasant for everyone. What’s perfectly fine at home doesn’t always fly in a restaurant setting. This article shares important tips to help you avoid common mistakes and be a more respectful and considerate diner. A little extra courtesy can go a long way toward making meals better for you, the staff, and everyone around you.
Talk on the phone
If you need to make a phone call, politely go outside. There’s nothing worse than someone shouting at the phone in a fine dining restaurant. Most importantly, avoid being on the phone while paying your bill or talking to your waiter. This is considered extremely rude, and some restaurants in the US are now refusing to serve clients who are doing so.
Arrive late
If you made a reservation for 1:00 PM, arrive at your chosen venue at the right time or no later than 1:15 PM. Anything past this time is considered extremely rude as it negatively influences those who reserve after you.
Keep the table occupied for too long
Once you’ve finished eating, don’t stay at your table for too long. This is especially important if other people are waiting for a table. If you want to keep talking with the people you shared a meal with, opt for a drink at the bar or lounge.
Placed used cutlery on the table
Used cutlery should never be placed on the table. This may stain the tablecloth, which, in fine-dining restaurants, are often high-quality products. After eating, place your fork and knife on your plate so your waiter can return everything to the kitchen.
Not canceling a reservation
If you make a reservation but realize at the last minute that you won't be able to make it, make sure to cancel it. Waiters and chefs will probably wait a long time before giving your table to someone else. People who don’t cancel their reservations when needed may even be denied entry on their next visit.
Completely change a dish
It's no problem changing a few ingredients, but if you’re asking for three modifications or more, you should probably consider ordering something else. Chefs put a lot of effort into their creations, and by taking away or adding ingredients, you may end up ruining a dish.
Be too loud
Fine dining expects customers to maintain a low tone of voice throughout their meal to avoid disturbing other guests. Of course, you can talk to your friends and relatives, but if the conversation gets too animated, step back and remind people to avoid being too loud.
Snap your fingers at your waiter
Snapping your fingers at the waiter is unacceptable, even if they are not paying attention to you. There are plenty of alternative ways to grab their attention, such as stopping them while walking past your table.
Forget to tip
Although two in three Americans are now fed up with the whole tipping system, waiters and waitresses across the US still heavily rely on it to earn their salary. Always leave a tip of at least 15% of your final bill, especially in luxurious restaurants.
Pick your teeth
Most people consider picking your teeth at the table rude. Even though chances are that no one will tell you anything if you decide to do it, people will surely notice. If you really feel the need, head to the toilet and pick your teeth there.
Cough
If you need to cough once or twice, that's understandable. Just cover your mouth and be sure to turn away from the food. But if you are actively sick and coughing constantly, it is best to just stay home. No one wants to get your germs and coughing uncontrollably while out at a restaurant, which is just rude.
Get Drunk
Restaurants are for eating good food, not getting wasted at the table. Sure, you can have a drink or two with your meal, but stay in control and do not overdrink. A drunk patron is something that the restaurant staff does not want to deal with, and other customers also don't want to see you acting like a fool.
This article was first published at Spatula Desserts.
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