Going out to eat should be an enjoyable experience for everyone at the table and around you. However, small slip-ups in manners can make the meal awkward or uncomfortable. Knowing what to avoid helps you feel confident and respectful, whether you're at a fancy restaurant or a casual eatery.
This article is for general informational and social guidance purposes only. Etiquette norms can vary by culture, setting, and occasion.
1. Speaking With Your Mouth Full
Nobody wants to see half-chewed food when you're trying to share a story. Talking whilst eating not only looks unpleasant but can also cause you to accidentally spit food particles across the table.
Always finish chewing and swallow before you speak. If someone asks you a question mid-bite, simply hold up a finger politely to signal you'll answer in a moment.
2. Reaching Across The Table
Stretching your arm over someone's plate to grab the salt or bread basket is considered rude and intrusive. Your sleeve might drag through someone's food, or you could knock over a glass.
Instead, politely ask the person nearest to the item to pass it to you. A simple "Could you please pass the pepper?" works perfectly every time.
3. Using Your Phone During Meals
Scrolling through social media or texting whilst dining sends a clear message: your phone matters more than the people you're with. It breaks conversation flow and makes others feel unimportant.
Keep your mobile on silent and tucked away in your pocket or bag. Give your full attention to your companions and the meal you're sharing together.
4. Interrupting The Server
Servers work hard to make your dining experience smooth, and cutting them off mid-sentence shows a lack of respect. They're trying to explain specials, answer questions, or take orders efficiently.
Wait for them to finish speaking before you chime in with requests or questions. Treating staff with courtesy makes the entire meal more pleasant for everyone involved.
5. Chewing Loudly
Loud chewing, smacking, or slurping can be incredibly distracting and off-putting to everyone nearby. Some people genuinely don't realise how much noise they're making whilst eating.
Keep your mouth closed when chewing, and try to eat at a moderate pace. Being mindful of the sounds you make shows consideration for fellow diners around you.
6. Not Placing The Napkin On Your Lap
Your napkin isn't just decorative - it's meant to protect your clothes from spills and crumbs. Leaving it on the table or tucked into your collar looks sloppy and unprofessional.
As soon as you sit down, unfold your napkin and place it across your lap. Use it to dab your mouth gently throughout the meal, especially before taking a sip.
7. Snapping Fingers To Get Attention
Snapping, whistling, or waving your hands frantically to summon a server is disrespectful and treats them like servants rather than professionals. It creates an uncomfortable atmosphere for everyone.
Make eye contact and raise your hand slightly, or wait for the server to pass by naturally. A polite "Excuse me" when they're nearby works far better than aggressive gestures.
8. Talking Too Loudly
Restaurants are shared spaces, and booming voices can ruin the ambience for tables around you. What feels like enthusiastic conversation to you might be disruptive noise to others trying to enjoy their meal.
Keep your volume at a conversational level that your tablemates can hear comfortably. Being aware of your surroundings ensures everyone can have a pleasant dining experience.
9. Starting Before Everyone Is Served
Tucking into your food whilst others are still waiting sends the message that you care more about your hunger than their company. It's awkward for those watching you eat whilst they sit empty-handed.
Wait until everyone at your table has their meal before you begin. This small gesture shows respect and makes the dining experience feel more communal and enjoyable.
10. Using The Wrong Cutlery
Fancy restaurants often set multiple forks, knives, and spoons, which can feel confusing if you're not sure which to use. Grabbing the wrong one might seem like a minor slip, but it can feel embarrassing.
Work from the outside in - use the outermost utensils first and progress inward with each course. When in doubt, observe others or discreetly ask your server for guidance.
11. Criticising The Food Or Service
Loudly complaining about your meal or the staff creates an uncomfortable atmosphere for your companions and nearby tables. It can also embarrass the people you're dining with.
If something's genuinely wrong, address it quietly and politely with your server. They're usually happy to fix issues without drama. Save detailed critiques for private conversations or online reviews later if necessary.
12. Not Tipping Appropriately
In many places, servers rely on tips as a significant part of their income. Leaving nothing or an insultingly small amount after good service is considered extremely rude.
Familiarise yourself with local tipping customs before dining out. In the UK, 10-15% is standard for good service. If service is included in your bill, check before adding extra to avoid over-tipping.
13. Ignoring Dress Code Or Table Manners
Showing up in gym clothes to a fine dining establishment or slouching with elbows planted on the table shows disregard for the venue's standards. Different restaurants have different expectations.
Check the dress code beforehand and dress accordingly. Sit up straight, keep elbows off the table, and follow basic manners. Respecting the establishment's atmosphere enhances everyone's experience, including yours.
