The Etiquette of Dining Out: What You Should Do First

When dining out, etiquette plays a crucial role in ensuring a pleasant and memorable experience. The first thing you should do when you arrive at a restaurant is establish yourself in a manner that reflects respect for the establishment and your companions. This guide will outline the essential steps to take and the common pitfalls to avoid, ensuring you make a good impression from the very beginning.

The Importance of Hygiene and Cleanliness

Before you even sit down, take a moment to ensure your basic hygiene is taken care of. For instance, place the napkin on your lap. This simple act not only protects your clothes from any spills or messes but also shows consideration for the restaurant and its staff.

Upon entering the restaurant, it is wise to avoid the immediate impulse to grab for your chair. Instead, engage in some light and polite small talk with your companions. This exchange should not be hurried; take the time to catch up, making sure everyone is present and seated comfortably. This helps to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for the evening.

Inspecting the Surroundings for Hygiene

Once you are seated, look around to ensure the environment is clean and comfortable. Pay special attention to the lower areas of the table, particularly under the table and near the walls, for any signs of infestation such as roaches or flies. At restaurants that are not as well-maintained, you may need to clean salt and pepper shakers and check for any suspicious greasy residue. It’s always better to be cautious and leave a restaurant that doesn’t meet your basic standards.

The Necessities of the Table

A key aspect of dining etiquette is paying attention to the details at the table. First, ensure that your chair is comfortably adjusted to the table. At more formal dining establishments, the host may push in your chair, which can feel awkward but is expected behavior. Adjust your chair as needed to ensure you are comfortable for the duration of the meal.

As you are seated, observe your table setting and the surroundings. At more formal establishments, the host may place your napkin in your lap. However, at moderately formal or more casual restaurants, you should ask for and place your own napkin. This shows attentiveness and respect for the customs of the restaurant.

Engaging with the Waitstaff and Making Decisions

Take the time to listen to the initial greeting or table routine from the waitstaff. This can give you insights into the restaurant's philosophy and standards. It's a good idea to try to judge how sincere their claims about locally sourced ingredients are, but remain polite and open-minded.

Once the initial greetings are over, get down to the business of choosing your meal. While you are waiting for the menu to be brought to the table, you can start browsing the pages and taking in the offerings. Utilize your technology responsibly by dimming your screen if necessary to avoid distracting others from their own activities.

Reviewing the Menu and Making Choices

At moderately to highly formal dining establishments, the menu often serves as the primary link between the kitchen and the customers. Take the time to peruse the menu before making your selection. This is not the time to whip out your phone and start Googling menu items or checking reviews. Instead, use this moment to engage in meaningful conversation with your dining companions and to make responsible choices based on the food you find appealing and suitable.

Using Technology Mindfully

While it's natural to want to check your phone while waiting for your food, it's important to use technology mindfully and respectfully. If you are playing a game or using an app that could be distracting to others (such as Pokémon or stock portfolios), use your device discretely and remember that the purpose of dining out is to spend quality time with your companions.

In summary, the first steps when dining out involve a combination of hygiene, politeness, and respect. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your dining experience is both enjoyable and thoughtful.