Dining out should serve two purposes. The most important is to satisfy our hunger and the other is to enjoy socializing with family or friends. Let’s assume that we have mastered our table manners and use common sense with basic table etiquette because I’d like to take this opportunity to express my views on a couple of other dining nuisances that, in my opinion, should top the etiquette list!
Dining should not be a stressful time. It is a time when we’d like to put aside the chaos of the day and relax. Just as it is our responsibility for our behavior while dining, there is also a responsibility to the Maitre-d, waiters, busboys, etc., right on through to the chef’s kitchen staff to make sure you, as a guest in that establishment, receive your food and service in an acceptable manner. We could say dining is a two-way street for both the “diners” and for the “staff”. Good service is what we remember the most, and unfortunately, bad service is remembered long after the meal has been digested, which makes for those stories we pass on at parties or at work.
My travels have taken me far and wide, outside the U.S. to many European countries. During these trips, I have had the good fortune to dine in a wide variety of wonderful restaurants throughout countries such as Italy, France, Sicily, Greece, Belgium just to name a few. I’ve dined in eateries ranging from elegant high-end to small “side of the road” cafes, but one thing remains consistent. Dinner is a gastronomical experience! Europeans love to dine in a relaxed atmosphere and savor every bite and every course. It is a time to come together with family and friends to enjoy food, drink and conversation at a leisurely pace. Sometimes, the dinner meal can take hours.
Most restaurateurs in European countries have honed the art of serving their customers with great anticipation and satisfaction. They make sure the diners are seated comfortably, orders taken, and food is served with pride. Once the customers are taken care of, they are left alone to enjoy their meals. No further interruptions (unless summoned by the customer) until the customer is ready to pay the bill and leave. Diners are never rushed. Plates might remain on the table (unless there is absolutely no room or upon a customer’s request) because the waiters respect your privacy while dining.
Americans call it dinner. Dinner can be defined as a means of sustenance. Many people rush home from work, throw down a quick bite so fast, it’s a wonder they