Contrary to the title this article is not going to be about etiquette in fine dining. That is another article all on its own. As apparently there are a lot of rules that we’ve broken. Something as simple as picking up the menu from the table is considered a faux pas. With that being said, here are the fool-proof tips to dine easier in the metro and everywhere else. Some may be obvious choices and irrelevant details but, as they say, the devil is in the details and if we’re going to shell out a generous amount of money (plus tip!) it is well worth remembering these practical nuggets.
Reservations Save The Day
Imagine a bid occasion, you’re all dressed to the nines and geared up to have a fancy night out only to find the restaurant you’ve been eyeing is fully booked. Now, that’s a crying shame. The hassle and the disappointment from you and your peers will be through the roof. Now, this could have all been avoided had you made the simple task of calling for reservations. Most upscale sit-down restaurants have websites or social media pages that contain their contact information, a simple phone call is crucial if you want to make your dinner plans seamless.
No, the question is when to call. Some places are fully booked 2 weeks in advanced while some, you can just call the day before to ensure you have a seat. It is well-worth noting that a little bit of research is needed to find out just how sought-after the restaurant you are eyeing is.
Dress Code
Usually in hotels, people who have checked-in are privy to walking around with the comfortable slippers that the hotel provided. However, ironically, during breakfast there is normally a dress code that specifies that people cannot wear their bath robes or slippers to breakfast. Things like this are what we ought to be aware of. Some upscale restaurants in the metro require certain dress codes. However to be on the safe side, here are some of the bare minimum that you need to remember:
Don’t wear flip-flops, wear closed shoes or shoes that can be considered as smart casual.
Shorts, specifically jean shorts, for men are usually not allowed. It would be better to wear long pants.
No hats or caps or any of that sort while dining, as it is seen as rather impolite.
Usually, the dress code is written on the websites, or if not, just like with the reservations section, a simple phone call can confirm the attire you should be wearing.
Basic Etiquette
You don’t have to be all prim and proper when dining out. After all, not every restaurant is that stiff. However, there are little things that we can practice so ad not to appear like it’s our first-time dining.
The first basic one is probably to wait until you are seated. Don’t just barge in and pick the table that tickles your fancy. Usually, in nicer restaurants as well, there will be reservations and you’ll have to ask (if you don’t have one) if walk-ins are open.
Second is to always be polite to the servers. Don’t snap, wave your hand around or call out loudly to be served. Your waiters are usually very adept and trained to notice when you need something. Simply raise your hand and someone will attend to do.
You also have to make sure to know the basic utensil skills and be aware of certain practices like placing the napkin on your lap, using the utensils correctly (outwards to inwards).
Courses 101
Be aware of the basics of the course meals that are to be served so that you can manage your expectations. For example, if it’s a 1-course meal, expect to be served a main dish. That’s all. If it’s a 2-course meal assume there is an appetizer or a dessert with your main course, a 3-course meal has both. On the fancier side a 4-course meal has an added treat of an entrée. If you’re a fan of cheeses then better pick a 5-course meal because the this includes a cheese course, while the 6-course option has the following: hors d’oeuvres, a soup course, a fish course, a salad course, your main course and a dessert course.
