Paris is a city of romance, culture, and of course, delicious food. If you’re planning a trip to the City of Lights, you’ll want to savor the experience of dining like a true Parisian. But sometimes, navigating the customs and etiquette of a foreign dining scene can be daunting. Don’t worry! This guide will help you embrace the Parisian restaurant experience with confidence.
Mastering the Art of Ordering
Feeling thirsty? Skip the pricey bottled water and ask for a carafe d’eau, a free carafe of tap water. Most restaurants offer still water this way, but if you prefer sparkling, you’ll have to pay. Remember, the French pronounce “carafe” with emphasis on the first syllable, more like “care-a-fe” than “car-a-fe”.
Craving a sweet treat? Order a cafe gourmand, which comes with a delightful selection of 3 to 5 mini desserts and a coffee, often for the price of a single dessert. It’s the perfect way to share a sweet indulgence with a friend!
Embracing French Bread and Beyond
Don’t expect a separate bread plate in most Parisian restaurants. Your bread will be served in a shared basket, so simply rest your piece on the table or your plate. One of the best things about French bread? Soaking up the delicious sauce left on your plate. Go ahead and indulge! It’s a classic Parisian practice.
Navigating the Payment Process
Don’t be surprised if the bill doesn’t arrive immediately. In a traditional French restaurant, you’ll need to ask for the check. Feeling ready to leave but can’t find your server? No problem! Simply stand up and head for the payment station on your way out. This is perfectly normal in most restaurants, especially during lunchtime. Just avoid doing this at Michelin-starred establishments or restaurants with exceptional service.
Don’t feel awkward the first time you do this! It might seem unusual at first, but it’s just a Parisian way of life.
Sharing is Caring and Splitting the Bill is Easy
In Paris, splitting the bill is common practice. While it’s easiest to split the bill evenly, you can also pay for your individual items. If some people have wine and others haven’t, simply calculate your individual share and pay the server one at a time. The last person covers the remaining balance. Many restaurants offer POS systems that allow servers to itemize your bill for you, but this is not always the case. Don’t worry! You can easily do the math yourself.
Timing is Everything: Enjoy the Parisian Dinner Rhythm
In Paris, dinner is a leisurely affair, often starting at 8 or 9 p.m. Many Parisians finish their workday around 7 p.m., so you won’t find them dining early. The atmosphere is often more lively later in the evening, so aim for 8:30 or later to experience the true Parisian dining scene. While you can certainly eat earlier, you might find yourself dining alongside fellow tourists.
Let’s Continue the Conversation!
I hope you find these tips helpful! I’d love to hear your thoughts on these Parisian dining customs and any other tips you’d like to share. Let’s make this a collaborative effort and help each other enjoy the delicious world of Parisian cuisine!
