Paris is a magical city, and dining there should be an experience you savor, not fret over! From the charming cafes to the elegant restaurants, Paris offers a unique dining experience that you won’t find anywhere else. But navigating the French dining etiquette can be a bit daunting for first-timers. Fear not, fellow foodie! Here are some insider tips from an American who’s spent years living and exploring this beautiful city.
Saving Those Precious Euros
Let’s talk about saving some money and enjoying the experience more! One of the best ways to do this is by requesting a carafe d’eau instead of ordering bottled water. A carafe is a free pitcher of tap water, which can save you a significant amount of money. Remember, the French typically prefer still water, so if you’re after sparkling, be prepared to pay extra. To avoid confusion, simply request “une carafe” when asked about your water preference.
Looking for a sweet treat at a reasonable price? Look no further than the cafe gourmand. This delectable dessert option comes with several miniature desserts and a coffee for the price of a single dessert. It’s the perfect solution if you’re not quite ready to commit to a full-size dessert, or if you want to share with a friend. Imagine, one cafe gourmand and one regular coffee, and you’ll both be happily indulging in delicious treats!
Bread, Bills, and Dinner Time Etiquette
French restaurants have a unique approach to bread. Don’t expect a separate bread plate; instead, you’ll receive a basket of fresh bread. The French are known for their love of bread, and its primary purpose is to soak up the delicious sauce left on your plate. Don’t be shy; it’s expected that you’ll enjoy it this way.
French service may seem slower than what you’re accustomed to back home. Don’t get flustered when the bill doesn’t magically appear after your meal. In Paris, the bill is brought to you only when you request it. Simply let your server know that you’re ready to pay. But here’s a Parisian secret: if you’re ready to leave and can’t locate your server, don’t panic! Just stand up and head towards the payment station, and you’ll be on your way. This is completely acceptable practice in most establishments, except for Michelin-starred restaurants or those with particularly attentive service.
Now, let’s talk about dinner time. Unlike American dining habits, Parisians typically dine later in the evening, around 8 or 9 pm. The apéro, a pre-dinner drink and snack, usually begins around 6 or 7 pm. Parisians often finish their work day around 7 pm, so you won’t find them rushing to dinner at 6 pm. The atmosphere is usually more lively and vibrant if you arrive after 8:30 pm, but if you prefer to eat earlier, you may find yourself sharing the restaurant with fellow tourists.
Sharing the Bill: A Parisian Delight
Splitting the bill among friends can be a breeze in Paris. While it’s perfectly acceptable to split the bill evenly, the French are also very comfortable with each person paying for their own items. If you find that some members of your group have indulged in wine while others haven’t, simply calculate the individual totals and pay the server one at a time. The last person in the group will settle the remaining amount. Many restaurants now have POS systems that make this process even more convenient, allowing the server to individually select items for each person. However, if the restaurant doesn’t have this feature, don’t worry, you can handle the calculations yourself. It’s a completely normal and accepted practice.
So, there you have it! These simple tips will make your Parisian dining experience more enjoyable, affordable, and authentic. I encourage you to embrace these local traditions and enjoy the unique charm of Parisian dining. And don’t forget to share your own dining tips in the comments below! I’m always eager to learn new tricks and add them to my repertoire. Bon appétit!
