Restaurant Etiquette: Simple Rules for Polite Dining

Walking into a restaurant can feel a bit intimidating, especially if you’re not sure what’s expected. The good news? You don’t need a PhD in etiquette to get it right. A few easy habits will make you look confident, keep the staff happy, and let you focus on the food.

Before You Sit Down

First thing—wait until the host or hostess greets you. If a waiting list is mentioned, don’t wander around looking for a table; just stay where you are or find the bar area if you’re comfortable. When you’re shown to your seat, place your napkin on your lap right away. Fold it loosely; you’ll unfold it later to dab your lips, not to wipe everything.

When the menu arrives, skim it quickly to see if there’s anything you can’t eat. If you have dietary restrictions, politely let the server know before ordering. Most places appreciate a heads‑up and can suggest safe options.

Ordering drinks? Keep it simple. Ask for water first—servers usually provide it for free, and it’s a nice way to start. If you want something more specific, the bartender or server can help you choose. Avoid shouting over other tables or the kitchen; a calm voice gets you better service.

During the Meal

When the food shows up, give it a quick look. If something is wrong—cold, undercooked, or not what you ordered—mention it right away. A courteous “Excuse me, could we check this?” works better than silent frustration.

Use your utensils from the outside in. The fork on the far right is for the first course; the one next to it is for the main dish. If you’re unsure, follow the server’s lead or mimic the people around you. It’s fine to rest your elbows on the table, but keep them off the edge of the table or the seat.

Talk at a moderate volume. Restaurants aren’t the place for a full‑on karaoke session, but a friendly chat adds to the experience. When you’re finished, place your napkin loosely on the left side of the plate—not folded back into the center.

Paying the bill? If you’re with a group, decide ahead of time whether you’ll split the check or one person will cover it. When the server brings the bill, thank them and tip around 15‑20 % of the total, unless service was exceptional or you’re in a country where tipping works differently.

Leaving a tip on the table without a receipt can cause confusion, so hand it directly to the server or put it in the bill folder. A quick “Thanks, everything was great!” shows appreciation and leaves a good impression.

That’s it—no secret handshake, just a handful of common‑sense moves. Next time you walk into a cafe, a bistro, or a fancy restaurant, you’ll feel ready to enjoy the food and the atmosphere without second‑guessing yourself.