Welcome to the City of Lights! Paris is renowned for its delicious cuisine, charming cafes, and captivating ambiance. As an American who has lived and explored this city for years, I’ve discovered a few restaurant etiquette tips that might surprise first-time visitors. These simple practices make dining in Paris a more delightful experience. Let’s dive in!
Water, Wine, and Other Delights
Tip #1: Embrace the Carafe d’Eau. Don’t be fooled by the tempting bottles of water on the menu. In most Parisian establishments, you can request a carafe d’eau, a complimentary carafe of tap water. This can save you a significant amount of money, especially if you’re ordering wine. Just remember, the carafe d’eau is usually still water, so if you crave sparkling water, you’ll have to pay for it. Just say “une carafe” to your server, and you’ll be set.
Tip #2: Indulge in a Cafe Gourmand. This is a must-try for dessert lovers. Instead of ordering a single dessert, opt for a cafe gourmand, which includes a delectable selection of mini desserts and a cup of coffee. This delicious treat is often enough to share with a companion, making it an exceptional value.
Tip #3: Embrace the Bread Basket. In most restaurants, bread will be served in a basket, not on individual plates. Feel free to break a piece of bread and enjoy it with your meal. The bread is also perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, a culinary ritual that’s quite common in Parisian dining. Don’t be shy about making the most of your bread!
Timing and Payments: A Parisian Perspective
Tip #4: Don’t Rush the Bill. In Parisian dining, the service is more relaxed, and the bill is typically not presented until you request it. If you’re ready to leave, don’t hesitate to ask for the bill. But if you can’t find your server, don’t stress! Simply stand up and head towards the payment station on your way out. This is perfectly acceptable practice, especially during lunchtime, and it’s not considered rude. (Of course, it’s always a good idea to be mindful of your surroundings and avoid doing this in a Michelin-starred restaurant or anywhere that has exceptionally attentive service.)
Tip #5: Split the Bill, Your Way. Splitting the bill evenly is the easiest option, but you also have the flexibility to pay for your own items. If some members of your group had wine, while others didn’t, just calculate your individual share and pay the server directly. The last person covers the remaining balance. Some restaurants even have POS systems that allow the server to itemize individual bills, which is incredibly convenient. But even if they don’t, don’t worry! You can manage the math yourself.
Dinner Time: A Cultural Note
Tip #6: Embrace the Parisian Dinner Hour. Dinner in Paris often starts later, around 8 or 9 pm. French people typically finish their workday around 7 pm, so you’re unlikely to see locals dining before that time. For a more vibrant atmosphere, consider joining the dinner rush around 8:30 pm or later. Of course, you can dine earlier if you prefer, but you might find yourself alone at the restaurant with a few other tourists.
I hope these tips help you enjoy your dining adventures in Paris! Please share your own experiences and any other helpful tips you might have. Bon appétit!
