7. Be mindful of other parties
When people are out to lunch or dinner, they don’t want to see or hear people acting out. This includes having way too many glasses of wine, talking very loudly, or being a little too close for comfort with your significant other. We need to all respect each other’s space!
8. Say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’
Not only to each other, but to your server and host! Thank your host when they seat you and thank your server when they deliver your food and drink. Let them know that their services are appreciated. You’ll have a better experience while dining in, guaranteed.
9. Don’t stay there for 3 hours after you’re finished eating
This is a popular thing to do on the weekends, but servers need their rest, too! As much as you want to stay there and chit-chat after you eat, it might be a good thing to close the check and leave. Maybe move yourself to the bar area instead! Chances are the bar is open longer than the kitchen is anyway.
10. Don’t whine and moan about where you’re being seated
Had to save this one for last because it’s easily the most common complaint hosts/servers get. If you want a booth over a table, let them know so that they can plan accordingly. If they seat you at a table when there’s plenty other booths available, it’s likely that they’re trying to follow their floor plan server rotation. This is to ensure that every server gets an appropriate amount of tables and can provide adequate service.
Were you surprised about any of these restaurant etiquette facts? Be sure to share this with your family and friends for the next time they go out to eat!