Etiquette Tips For Eating At A Fancy Restaurant
When it comes to eating out there's a wide variation in what's considered good manners and acceptable behaviour depending on the type of restaurant you're frequenting. If you're indulging in your favourite fast food, you'll know it's fine to be as relaxed and informal as you would be when sitting down for a meal at home, but what about fine dining?
Visiting a fancy restaurant can be a real treat and an experience that goes beyond the food itself. If you're not accustomed to visiting fine dining establishments, you may feel a little uneasy ahead of your visit. This really isn't necessary, as much of what's expected of you is really just basic good manners. Here are some etiquette tips that will ensure you make the right impression and help you feel more relaxed when eating at a fancy restaurant.
Your Arrival
Do your best to arrive at the restaurant on time and call ahead if you are going to be late. When you are shown to your seat, do not place any items, such as your bag, phone or sunglasses, on the table. Try to be mindful of your posture when seated and, of course, keep your elbows off the table. This can be hard to do, as it's just a habit for many people. If you know a week or so in advance that you'll be visiting a fine dining restaurant, try to practice keeping your elbows off the table when eating at home.
Navigating The Table Setting
Don't feel intimidated by the table setting. The general rule with cutlery is that you start at the outside and work your way in toward the cutlery closest to your plate. The outer fork on your left is for salad and the inner fork on your left is your dinner fork. If there is a fork on your right it's for seafood, and a spoon on your right is for soup. The spoon and fork at the top of your plate are for dessert. Open your napkin until it's only folded in half and place it on your lap with the fold closest to your waist, and if you need to leave the table during the meal, place the napkin on your seat or to the left of your plate.
During The Meal
Basic good manners, such as eating slowly and chewing with your mouth closed, should be adhered to. Before seasoning your meal you should taste it, and if you're having bread, it should be torn into small pieces and should not be cut with a knife. If you need to pass any items, such as the bread basket, you can take a piece for yourself and then pass to your right. It's considered polite to leave some food on your plate, but it won't be frowned upon if you completely finish your meal.
Eating at a fancy restaurant is a great experience that should be enjoyable. Be mindful of these etiquette tips and then simply enjoy your meal and the company of those you're dining with.
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