Good restaraunt behavior can benefit everybody
- posted: 10 July 2007
- scrolllifestyle@byui.edu
Going out to eat can be considered a privilege for some, while others do it on a daily basis. Whether people are veterans of a fine-dining experience or first timers, everyone should know the proper restaurant etiquette.
A list compiled at www.StarChefs.com, a magazine for culinary readers from the Seattle Times, reveals points of behavior that can lead to a better experience at a restaurant, for the servers and the guests.
Keep reservations. “If you make a reservation, stick to it. Call ahead if you’re going to be more than 15 minutes late, and cancel as far in advance as possible if your plans change so, that someone else can get a table,” according to the Web site.
However, a disappointment that the reservation is not ready is a reality. “The biggest thing is to be patient. Going out to eat on Friday and Saturday, you won’t be alone. Half the town will be eating out with you,” said Mr. Hunter, a manager of an Idaho restaurant.
Tell the server about dietary conditions or preferences in food. Servers should try to make reasonable substitutions and accommodations to customer’s requests.
If an order is unsatisfactory, do not be aggressive with the waiter, the problem could come from the kitchen. Communicate with the chef and waiter so they can have an opportunity to rectify the situation.
“Turn off your cell phone or switch it to silent mode before sitting down to eat, and leave it in your pocket or purse,” according to StarsChef.com.
On the occasion when the cell phone needs to be answered, answer the call in the lobby of the restaurant or quickly step outside.
Go early with your children; fewer people will be dining and the servers will be able to provide extra attention.
Hunter suggests bringing something to entertain the children, just in case service is longer than expected.
Tips are a customer’s way to provide feedback about the service in a restaurant and should be used to reflect quality.
If service is inattentive, forgetful, rude or careless, leave a smaller tip to indicate your displeasure. Only in extreme cases should a tip never be given.
“Worldwide, the tip is 20 percent of the bill. It isn’t hard to figure; just use your cell phone to calculate the tip,” said Hunter.
Following these five points of behavior can help lead to a great restaurant experience for the servers and the guests. Next time, when going out to eat, have good behavior and remember to mind your manners. 
