by Cranky Curmudgeon

Created on: June 08, 2010   Last Updated: September 03, 2010

Restaurant etiquette is a broad discussion which includes cell-phone use, children and attire; most importantly, however, benefitting from a great experience at a restaurant requires a bit of inside knowledge in etiquette and understanding of the business. Servers wipe the dripping disdain from their brows solely due to the ignorance of guests who have not ever before worked in a foodservice establishment or may have, too long ago, completed a short stint as a waiter in college. Minding etiquette regarding the service staff is the most important factor in ensuring a great night out for you and your family. Are you ready to learn the tricks? Let’s get started.

Top 6 Basic Etiquette Rules

Treat your server like an adult, not a 5 year old: Placating to your waitress by thanking her three times for delivering your ice-water or using a child-like voice to seem friendly will only, and rightfully, irritate your server.

Stop your conversation and make eye contact when entrees arrive: Your server will make sure you and your guests have everything you need when she drops off your entrees. She should not have to interrupt you and then apologize for ‘being rude’ in order to offer drink refills, extra napkins, side items etc... as she is only doing her job and treating you as her guest.

Keep your feet under the table: Unfortunately, accidents, injuries and dry-cleaning reimbursements happen way too often when guests do not keep their feet under the table. Blocking the walkway or requiring the waitress to step on your foot in order to get close enough to the table to deliver your food is ridiculous. A restaurant is not a place to recline.

Move your salad plate, glass of wine, silverware or other obstructions to the side when your server is attempting to deliver your entrees. Waitresses are taught that moving a guest’s glassware, silverware or any other item in use is rude. Also, reaching across a guest to serve another guest is rude. Agreed? Now, the rule is to promptly move your glassware and tableware out of the way so that the server may set down your plate. Much too often do people stare at me when I deliver their food and do not realize I am waiting for a spot to set down entrees. Moving your glass 2 inches away from your body is not a big enough space for a 10 inch plate to fit. Did you forget you came to a restaurant to eat?

It's 2010! A 20% tip is VERY average. 15% is for poor service and 30%+ for good service. A less than 15% tip is like

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