Classy people always follow these 10 etiquette rules when dining at a restaurant

There’s a clear distinction between just eating at a restaurant and dining with class.

This distinction boils down to etiquette. Eating is simply about filling your belly, totally oblivious of the rules that govern dining. Dining with class, however, means being aware of these rules and following them – not because you have to, but because you respect them.

Classy people understand that there are certain etiquette rules to be followed when dining at a restaurant. They know that these rules reflect on their personality and style.

Here are the 10 etiquette rules that truly classy people never forget at a restaurant.

1) Understanding the table setting

The dining table can sometimes look like a battlefield, with an array of forks, knives and spoons of different sizes positioned strategically.

Classy people, however, never get bewildered by this. They understand the table setting and know exactly which cutlery to use for each course.

This knowledge comes in handy especially at high-end restaurants or formal dinners where the table setting can be more elaborate. Using the wrong utensil can be embarrassing and can send signals of ignorance about dining etiquette.

So how do you navigate this cutlery conundrum? The general rule is to start from the outside and work your way in as the meal progresses.

Having this understanding of the table setting clearly communicates your sophistication and class while dining at a restaurant. It’s not just about impressing others, but about respecting the dining norms and showing that you are comfortable in such settings.

But remember, it’s not just about knowing which fork to use when, but also about how you handle your cutlery. Classy individuals always handle their utensils with grace and ease.

2) Minding your manners

Etiquette is not just about the big rules, but also the little manners that make a big difference. And I’ve personally experienced how important this is.

I remember dining at a well-known steakhouse with a few colleagues. We were all excited about the mouth-watering steaks we had heard so much about. As we sat down, I noticed one of my colleagues, let’s call him John, was particularly enthusiastic.

As soon as his steak arrived, he started eating as if there was no tomorrow. He didn’t wait for others’ meals to arrive, was talking with his mouth full and was quite loud.

While his excitement was understandable, his lack of dining etiquette was quite noticeable and frankly, a bit off-putting.

Classy people, on the other hand, always mind their manners. They wait until everyone’s meal has arrived before they start eating. They chew with their mouths closed and don’t talk while eating. They also keep their voice at a moderate level not to disturb others dining around them.

Maintaining these basic manners can really elevate your dining experience and show your respect for those around you. It’s not just about being classy, but also about being considerate and respectful.

3) Using the napkin properly

Napkins have a fascinating history. They date back to ancient Roman times when large pieces of cloth, known as ‘mappae’, were used at banquets to wipe hands and mouth, and also to take home leftovers.

Fast forward to today, and the concept has refined quite a bit. Classy individuals know that napkins at a dining table aren’t just for wiping off spills or crumbs. They serve a specific purpose and there’s an etiquette to using them.

As soon as you sit down, the napkin should be unfolded and placed on your lap. It stays there throughout the meal, ready for use when needed. If you need to excuse yourself during the meal, the napkin is folded loosely and placed on your chair, not on the table.

At the end of the meal, it’s not crumpled up or left in a heap. Instead, it’s folded loosely and placed to the left of your plate. It might seem like a small detail, but it speaks volumes about your dining etiquette and class.

4) Ordering with consideration

Classy people don’t just order for the sake of eating. They order with consideration.

When dining in a group, they take into account the preferences of others at the table. If everyone is opting for a three-course meal, it would be inappropriate to order just an appetizer. It disrupts the flow of the meal and can make others uncomfortable.

Similarly, if someone else is footing the bill, it’s not classy to order the most expensive item on the menu unless encouraged to do so.

Also, classy individuals are considerate towards the restaurant staff as well. They ask about the dishes but don’t keep the server running back and forth with endless questions. They are decisive and mindful that the server has other tables to attend to.

Ordering with consideration shows respect for others at your table and demonstrates your understanding of dining etiquette. It’s not just about what you eat, but how you go about it.

5) Respecting the staff

An integral part of dining with class is showing respect to the restaurant staff.

Classy people never forget that the waiters, chefs, and other restaurant employees are working hard to provide them with a pleasant dining experience. They treat them with kindness, patience, and respect.

They don’t snap their fingers or shout to get the waiter’s attention. They patiently wait their turn and speak politely when placing their orders or asking for assistance.

Moreover, they take the time to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’, recognizing the effort that goes into serving them.

It’s not just about how you treat those dining with you, but also those who are serving you. Your behavior towards the restaurant staff is a reflection of your character and class.

6) Sharing the space

Dining out isn’t just about your individual experience. It’s also about sharing a space with others who are there to enjoy their meal too.

Classy people understand this inherently. They are always mindful of the people dining around them.

They keep their conversation volume in check so as not to disturb others. They avoid using strong perfumes or colognes that could interfere with the aroma of food and potentially spoil someone else’s dining experience.

Moreover, they don’t encroach upon others’ space by spreading out their belongings on adjacent empty seats or tables.

This level of awareness and consideration for others is what sets classy individuals apart. It’s not just about following a set of rules, but also about empathy and respect for others. Dining with class is as much about the heart as it is about etiquette.

7) Being patient

I remember a time when I was at a fine dining restaurant celebrating a special occasion. The place was bustling and the kitchen was clearly backed up. Our main course took longer than expected to arrive, testing my patience.

In such situations, it’s easy to let frustration take over and complain. But that’s not what classy people do.

They understand that there can be hiccups and delays, especially on busy nights. They don’t get agitated or make unnecessary complaints. Instead, they patiently wait, engage in conversation, and enjoy the ambiance.

Being patient in such situations shows respect for the restaurant staff who are likely doing their best under pressure. It also helps maintain a pleasant atmosphere at the table, ensuring that everyone continues to enjoy their evening despite the delay.

8) Leaving something on the plate

It might seem odd, but leaving a little food on your plate is actually considered good dining etiquette by some cultures.

Classy individuals are aware of this subtle nuance. They know that cleaning your plate entirely could be construed as you’re still hungry or the portion wasn’t sufficient.

On the other hand, leaving a small amount of food on the plate signifies that you are satisfied and the meal was fulfilling.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you should waste food or leave large portions untouched. The key is balance – showing appreciation for the meal while subtly indicating your satisfaction.

This small act can speak volumes about your dining etiquette and understanding of cultural nuances. It’s about reading between the lines and respecting unspoken rules.

9) Knowing when to take a break

Whether it’s a business dinner or a casual meal with friends, conversations are an integral part of dining out. But classy people know when to hit the pause button.

While eating, they focus on their meal and the people they’re dining with. They don’t take phone calls or check their emails at the table. If something urgent comes up, they excuse themselves and step away from the table to attend to it.

Similarly, they refrain from applying makeup or combing their hair at the table. These are personal grooming activities that should be done in private, not at the dining table.

Knowing when to take a break from these activities and focus on the dining experience is a sign of respect for the others at the table and for the restaurant itself. It’s about understanding that there is a time and place for everything.

10) Tipping appropriately

Tipping is more than just leaving some extra cash on the table. It’s a way to show your appreciation for the service provided.

Classy people understand the importance of tipping and do so generously. They don’t skimp on tips or calculate the minimum amount they can get away with.

They also know that tipping isn’t just about the amount, but also about how it’s given. They don’t flaunt their tips or make a big show of leaving it. They leave it discreetly, often with a note of thanks.

Tipping appropriately is a clear indication of your understanding and appreciation of the dining experience. It’s a gesture that speaks louder than words and leaves a lasting impression.

Final Course: It’s All About Respect

The art of dining etiquette, much like the art of conversation, is centered around respect. Respect for the food, respect for the people around you, and respect for the space you’re sharing.

These 10 rules are more than just guidelines for behavior at a restaurant. They are an avenue to express your appreciation for the culinary experience, the effort of the restaurant staff, and the company of those dining with you.

Whether it’s understanding the table setting, ordering considerately, or tipping appropriately, each practice is a subtle nod to this underlying principle of respect.

Adhering to these etiquette rules doesn’t just make you classy. It makes you mindful and considerate, qualities that extend beyond the dining table.

So next time you find yourself at a restaurant, remember these rules. Not just for the sake of appearing classy, but to truly appreciate and respect the art of dining.