Making the Most of Your Dining Experience
There are many things to consider when dining out for business or with friends, and although straightforward, it is a good idea to think about the night ahead and plan.
Before the Dinner
- Be Prompt: Always aim to arrive on time. If you’re running late, inform the host or call the restaurant.
- For Larger Parties: If your group has more than four people, wait at the bar until the host arrives, as there may be seating arrangements.
- Settle Bar Bills: If you order a drink at the bar before your group arrives, pay for it before joining the table.
During the Dinner
- Follow the Host’s Lead:
- Ordering Drinks: Take cues from the host when it comes to ordering cocktails or wine.
- Ordering Meals: Try to order within the price range of what the host is ordering.
- Basic Etiquette:
- No Phones at the Table: Keep your phone away.
- Introductions: If you ask the waiter’s name, share yours too, but don’t overuse their name as it can seem condescending.
- Conversation: Engage with those seated next to you as well as across from you. Stay with safe topics: theatre, film, books; no politics or religion.
- Silverware Use: Start with the outermost utensils and work your way in.
- Passing Food: Pass food to the right and offer to hold the dish for the person next to you.
- Salt and Pepper: Pass them together and taste your food before seasoning it
- Wait to Eat: Wait until everyone is served before starting to eat, unless the host instructs otherwise.
- Resting Silverware: Place used silverware on the side of your plate, not the table.
- Dropped Silverware: Leave any dropped silverware on the floor; do not bring it back to the table.
- Pacing and Finishing:
- Try to keep pace with the group, finishing around the same time as the host.
- Dirty dishes will be cleared once everyone is done.
After the Dinner
- Smooth Departure: Know when it’s time to leave, ensuring your departure is as courteous as your arrival.
- Express Gratitude: Say good night to all the people you engaged with and give special thanks to your host. Sending a written thank you is always suggested and appreciated, but an email will suffice if you don’t have the address.
Following these guidelines will help you navigate dining experiences with ease and ensure you leave a positive impression.
Debbie von Ahrens
With a rich background in the culinary world, Debbie von Ahrens's journey has taken her through some of New York City's most renowned restaurants, including Balthazar, Augustine, and One Fifth. Her experience as Vice President, Director of Sales for FOX5 New York, and UNP9 allowed her to entertain clients in top-notch restaurants and venues across the country. She is excited to share her passion for restaurants and hospitality through business executives' eyes in her debut book The Business of Dining: A Guide to Making a Five-Star Impression.
