Eating out or joining friends for dinner is a great way to enjoy yourself while being social. It also helps you stay on track with your diet and avoid ordering unhealthy food.
But going out alone or bringing kids with you can be difficult. If you’re feeling rusty on restaurant etiquette, here are some steps you can follow to make your next trip more enjoyable.
Ask For a Table With a View
Trying new places is one of the fun parts of eating out or joining friends for dinner. Whether you’re looking to sample the best of the best or want to get out and about, it’s a good idea to have a go-to restaurant in mind when you’re on the hunt for the perfect spot for a light lunch or a nightcap after a long day at the office. The biggest challenge is narrowing your list of contenders to just a few. Luckily, there are many tools at your disposal to help. Asking your diners for suggestions is the most efficient way to do this. If you can’t go to the same place with your friends, join a different restaurant like Tin Plate Pizza instead of going out alone. It is a great way to have a social outing without feeling too self-conscious about being alone.
Ask For a Table With a Window
A table with a window is a must-have for a good dining experience. The view can make or break a meal, so asking for it when you book is essential. Generally, booking your table during off-peak times is best, as restaurants are less likely to fill it.
If you’re lucky, they may even have a seat by the window when you arrive! However, it’s a bit of a lottery.
To increase your chances of snagging a table with a view, look sharp and dress to impress when booking. It will not only make you feel more comfortable, but it could also have the added benefit of swaying the restaurant’s decision.
Another tip is always to be punctual, especially if you’ve booked a table for a special occasion. Being late or not turning up on the night can significantly impact a restaurant’s business, so be sure to inform them in advance if you aren’t there when you book.
Order a Drink
Whether eating out or joining friends for dinner, ordering a drink suitable for the occasion is essential. Many terms can be confusing, so ask the waiter or bartender if you need more clarification about what you want.
For example, if you order a stirred cocktail instead of shaken one, you want to have it served in a glass that has been started (rather than shaken) before being strained. It will help to aerate the drink and make it lighter-feeling.
You can also order a drink that is “topless.” It means you don’t want ice or mixers in your glass; it will come without garnishes like salt or pepper. It is ideal if you want a non-alcoholic drink for your night out with friends.
Eating out can be a fun way to spend time with friends or family, but it can also be a disaster if you aren’t careful.
Order a Dessert
Dessert is an integral part of a good dining experience. According to a recent Technomic study, 58% of consumers said they had a great experience eating at a restaurant because of the dessert they ordered.
To get more diners to order dessert, restaurants may want to display dessert menus at the entrance or place them on top of the regular menu to catch guests’ eye first. Additionally, restaurants can offer a discount for desserts after a meal.
If the waiter suggests a dessert, try to make a suggestion that will leave you room for something else.
You can also order a dessert to-go and enjoy it later if you’re still full. It will save you money and keep you from overeating at the restaurant. It will also be easier for you to bring it back to your home if you need to. And it can be an excellent way to show that you care about your guests.
Look For a Place With a Good Atmosphere
Whether you’re eating out or joining friends for dinner, there are a few steps to enjoy the experience. From finding a place with an excellent atmosphere to ordering a delicious drink, here are some tips for enjoying your evening.
Firstly, choose a place that will work well with your dietary restrictions. If you or a friend are on a gluten-free diet, pick a restaurant that can accommodate this.
Next, make sure you don’t overeat when dining out. Avoid fried foods and drinks with many calories, fat and sugar.
You can also ask if your friends have any allergies or food sensitivities and are prepared to answer their questions. It will help to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable meal.
