Restaurant Etiquette

When people go out to eat, they all want to have a good time, so here are a few simple dining out tips to help everyone enjoy themselves, and not be “those people.” These five tips will help ensure the staff, and you are all comfortable and happy when dining out.

1. Be aware of the kids.

When folks go out to eat, they all would like to enjoy their time, and for some people having children running around, making noise, or just generally being children, is not what they had in mind. Most of the time, a restaurant’s website will give you a good idea as to whether or not it is a child-friendly establishment.

2. Tip appropriately.

This idea seems to have a bit of a generational gap; however, recognize that a ten percent tip is no longer the accepted norm. Your grandparents most likely would be leaving a ten percent tip, yet most people—say around 30 years old—will pay a minimum fifteen percent, ranging upward to twenty-five or thirty percent; which is much more appropriate these days.

3. Don’t walk in at closing time.

When a restaurant says they close at 11 PM, they mean just that, and you will most likely be served a lovely meal at the establishment of your choosing at 10:50 PM; however, the staff may not be very appreciative. It is easy to forget that the restaurant staff can work long hours and may only want to get home to their families or just to put their feet up. They generally have an hour or so of work to do once all of the guests leave, and are probably tired, as anyone would be when near the end of a workday. So, try to remember to be considerate.

4. Make a reservation.

If you are looking to have a night out, and you have a large party, don’t forget to make a reservation. This one lends to everyone having an enjoyable time. Making sure that the establishment is ready to serve your party of twelve will undoubtedly make your night more enjoyable, and making a reservation allows everyone to prepare from the kitchen to your server, and the bar staff.

5. Be kind.This one is plain and simple. 

A restaurant is a place of business like any other, and you wouldn’t talk down to a car salesman, or the associate at the jewelry store. So, there is no reason to condescend the service staff at a restaurant either. One of the biggest complaints any restaurant employee has is that they're consistently talked down to, even though they have done an excellent job. Ultimately, diners can all follow the golden rule in the case of restaurant staff and treat others as they would like to be addressed.

If you’re new to a city, ask your real estate professional or workmate about local tipping practices.