Don't Do This at a Restaurant!

Dining out is a delightful experience, but without proper etiquette, it can turn uncomfortable for you and those around you. Whether at a casual diner or a five-star restaurant, certain behaviors are frowned upon. Here are the top eight restaurant etiquette mistakes you might be making and how to avoid them.

1. Ignoring Your Reservation

Failing to honor a reservation or arriving late can cause the restaurant to lose money and disrupt their schedule. If you can’t make it, let the restaurant know as soon as possible to free up the table for other diners.

2. Waving Down the Server

Snapping, waving, or yelling for the server’s attention is considered rude. Instead, wait for the server to approach or try to make eye contact if you need assistance urgently.

3. Eating Before Everyone Is Served

It’s polite to wait until everyone at your table has their food before you begin eating. If your food is getting cold, you can politely ask others if they would mind if you started.

4. Disrespecting the Server

Treating your server with disrespect, such as not making eye contact, being impolite, or failing to say “please” and “thank you,” reflects poorly on you. If there’s an issue with your meal, address it calmly and discreetly.

5. Using Your Phone at the Table

Leaving your phone on the table can be distracting and signals you’re not fully engaged with your dining companions. It’s best to avoid using your phone during the meal. If you’re expecting an important call, keep it discreetly under your leg on your seat.

6. Failing to Promptly Inform Your Server About Separate Checks

If you need separate checks, let your server know at the start. It’s easier for them to keep track and prevents confusion later. Remember that splitting checks is a courtesy, not a right, and some restaurants may have limitations.

7. Tipping Poorly

In the United States, tipping 20% for good service is the norm. Even if the service wasn’t perfect, tipping less than 15% is seen as disrespectful. Remember that servers rely on tips to make a living, and fair tipping is part of dining etiquette.

8. Staying Past Closing Time

Lingering at the restaurant after closing time can be inconvenient for the staff, who may have tasks to complete before they leave. Be mindful of closing hours and avoid overstaying.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure a pleasant dining experience for everyone involved. Good etiquette is about showing respect, being considerate, and understanding the unspoken rules of dining out.

References: 12 Restaurant Etiquette Tips for Dining Out | The unwritten rules of eating out: What Americans think about restaurant etiquette