How to Behave Considerately at a Restaurant
Be polite., Be helpful when the server asks for your drink., Try to discern what is in your meal choice prior to asking questions., When you receive your meal the server will wait about 30 seconds for you to check it over and make sure it's ok or if...
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Be polite.
When you are seated at a table and your server comes to greet you, stop talking, get off the phone and respond.
Think about how it feels for those waiting on you when you make them wait for a long time; you wouldn't do this to people at your work, so try not to do it in a restaurant. -
Step 2: Be helpful when the server asks for your drink.
Make it very clear what it is that you would like and if you need any changes, spell these out very clearly rather than hoping your server will read your mind.
Be considerate if your server asks you if want something before the meal; this is often standard practice.
Just say no if it doesn't interest you. , That way, you can avoid asking more obvious questions and just ask the questions that are specific to your concerns, such as any need for dietary changes or allergen avoidance. , Tell the waiter there and then if something concerns you, or if something is missing; that is what this opportunity is for. , The server should come back more than one time to see how your are doing, don't ignore them or be rude
- a simple nod will do unless there is a problem. , If you need a fresh plate or glass for anything, just ask for one. , The server will ask you if you want anything, and this is your opportunity to ask for dessert, extra drinks etc. , When it comes to credit cards or debit, remember they are the same payment method as far as the server is concerned.
Don't ask the server to add the tip
- that is your job and you should write this in clearly.
With cash, an experienced server can tell if you need change or not if you are using a 50 on a 25 dollar meal.
But if a server says "I will be right back with your change" but you don't want any, say so right there and then to save them having to make a return trip for naught, especially on a busy night. , If you are happy with the service you've received, be considerate and leave your waiter or waitress a tip. 10% of the cost of your bill, plus another 5% is usually considered acceptable for decent service.
If you think that your server was exceptional, you may want to leave a little more.
Leaving a tip is only common courtesy, because the servers at most restaurants really don't get paid very much by their employers. -
Step 3: Try to discern what is in your meal choice prior to asking questions.
-
Step 4: When you receive your meal the server will wait about 30 seconds for you to check it over and make sure it's ok or if you need anything else.
-
Step 5: Be gracious when the server checks in on you.
-
Step 6: Move all bowls
-
Step 7: plates
-
Step 8: and glasses no longer in use to the end of the table so the server can remove them easily.
-
Step 9: Although you probably don't want anything after the meal
-
Step 10: don't wait if you do because the bill is likely in the process of being tallied up if you dally.
-
Step 11: Pay your bill promptly.
-
Step 12: Tip correctly.
Detailed Guide
When you are seated at a table and your server comes to greet you, stop talking, get off the phone and respond.
Think about how it feels for those waiting on you when you make them wait for a long time; you wouldn't do this to people at your work, so try not to do it in a restaurant.
Make it very clear what it is that you would like and if you need any changes, spell these out very clearly rather than hoping your server will read your mind.
Be considerate if your server asks you if want something before the meal; this is often standard practice.
Just say no if it doesn't interest you. , That way, you can avoid asking more obvious questions and just ask the questions that are specific to your concerns, such as any need for dietary changes or allergen avoidance. , Tell the waiter there and then if something concerns you, or if something is missing; that is what this opportunity is for. , The server should come back more than one time to see how your are doing, don't ignore them or be rude
- a simple nod will do unless there is a problem. , If you need a fresh plate or glass for anything, just ask for one. , The server will ask you if you want anything, and this is your opportunity to ask for dessert, extra drinks etc. , When it comes to credit cards or debit, remember they are the same payment method as far as the server is concerned.
Don't ask the server to add the tip
- that is your job and you should write this in clearly.
With cash, an experienced server can tell if you need change or not if you are using a 50 on a 25 dollar meal.
But if a server says "I will be right back with your change" but you don't want any, say so right there and then to save them having to make a return trip for naught, especially on a busy night. , If you are happy with the service you've received, be considerate and leave your waiter or waitress a tip. 10% of the cost of your bill, plus another 5% is usually considered acceptable for decent service.
If you think that your server was exceptional, you may want to leave a little more.
Leaving a tip is only common courtesy, because the servers at most restaurants really don't get paid very much by their employers.
About the Author
Ann Griffin
A passionate writer with expertise in practical skills topics. Loves sharing practical knowledge.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: