How to Behave When Dining in a Five-Star Restaurant

Good manners are not a thing of the past. But in our fast food society, how to behave when dining in a five-star restaurant may never be on the menu. For those occasions when you do find yourself in a fine dining situation, it's important to be aware of the basics. Attention to detail will go along way to making your five star dining experience a good one.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Basic understanding of good table manners
• Knowledge of proper utensil usage

1. Research the restaurant where you will be dining. Looking at the menu beforehand will help you make good decisions at the table.

2. Make a reservation if the restaurant accepts them. Arrive a few minutes before your scheduled time.

3. Place your napkin in your lap before eating. Leave the napkin on the chair if you leave the table to let the waiter know you aren't finished. When you return, turn the napkin over to the clean side.

4. Use utensils from the outside in. After each course leave used utensils on the plate to be removed. Never place used utensils back on the table cloth.

5. Choose an appetizer. Most five star restaurants expect this or include it as a multi-course meal.

6. Ask server for a wine suggestion. You can only return a bottle of wine if it is spoiled, not if you don't like it.

7. Wait for the host or hostess to begin eating before you do. This usually happens after everyone has been served. The same is true for each course, including dessert.

Tips & Warnings

• Take suggestions from your server about good choices if you are unsure what to order.
• Watch those around you for clues to good dining etiquette, especially if they are more experienced.
• Rudeness in any restaurant will result in bad service. Trained wait staff expect good behavior from their guests.
• Always tip appropriately.