A lot of people assume that manners only apply when eating out at fancy Tampa restaurants. After all, you’re surrounded by people who belong to the upper ranks of society, so you should watch how you conduct yourself in front of them.
However, it’s not right to display the proper restaurant etiquette in fancy restaurants and none at all at regular restaurants. Unfortunately, there are still some people who think that way.
To make sure that this doesn’t happen, here are some basic tips on restaurant etiquette that you should be following whether you’re eating at your local casual restaurant or the fanciest one in town.
Respect other diners
Some diners feel like that just because they’re eating out, nobody exists aside from them in the restaurant. Don’t be rude to the other diners. If they arrived there first, then let them be seated first.
If they had a reservation, then don’t grumble about how you got there first. Don’t cut in line, and if you’re bringing children with you to dine out, then don’t let them get in the way of other diners.
Dress appropriately
No matter where you’re going to be eating, you should always dress appropriately, even if you’re just heading down to your local cafe for a sandwich.
The outside world is not your apartment, so you shouldn’t dress like you’re lounging at home. This is enforced even more at fancy restaurants, as there are dress codes that you’re going to have to adhere to, or else risk being turned away from the door.
Respect your server
Some diners are very rude to waiters simply because their job is to serve them. You should never disrespect your waiters or you come off as very rude. Their job is to simply make sure that you enjoy your Tampa restaurants dining experience, and you should be helping them achieve that.
Ask them about the specials, inform them about any allergies or food aversions you may have, and say please and thank you. It doesn’t take much to be a decent person to another.
Always tip your server
Always, always, always tip your server. Servers make less than minimum wage because of certain labor law loopholes, and they rely on tips to make sure that they make enough to meet their basic needs.
Good servers always try their best to give you a good dining experience, and you should always reward that. If you feel like there was something lacking in their service, then speak with their manager, don’t take it out on their tips.