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Sometimes it is much easier to entertain at a restaurant than at home, and why not with the huge range of choices available to the Australian diner. Whether you go out as an intimate couple or as part of a large group, knowledge of basic restaurant dining etiquette will allow you to sit back and appreciate your meal, surroundings and immediate company.

The Rules for Restaurant Dining

1) If hosting a large group be on hand to greet the first guest.

2) To add a personal touch to your table turn up early and place a carnation or rose on the service plate of each guest. Consider using place cards if entertaining a large group to avoid the sometimes awkward "Who will set where?". Your organisation and personal touch will be appreciated by guests.

3) Remember that the waiter is there to assist you. Neither try to impress the waiter nor take a superior attitude to this person. Simply use good manners.

4) When your group enters, the host (if there is one) should approach the head waiter. Therefore the host will arrive at the table first and will be able to assist with seating guests unless organised beforehand.

5) When you arrive at the table the waiter will normally place the napkin on your lap. If the waiter does not do this place the napkin yourself.

6) Do not be overwhelmed by the amount of silverware and glassware in front of you. The general rule is to work from the outside in, however this may vary depending on your choice of beverage. For more hints on the layout of a formal table, click here.

7) The waiter will normally take orders for pre-dinner drinks when handing out the menus.

8) When bread arrives at the table always take butter from the butter dish to your side plate. Break the bread, don't cut it, and butter each portion separately with your own bread and butter knife (the bread and butter knife will be placed either on the side dish or as the outer most knife) just before you eat it.

9) When ordering do not be afraid to ask the waiter for advice, remember the waiter is there to assist you.

10) If you need to leave the table it is common courtesy to excuse yourself from immediate company.

11) It is advisable to leave the ordering of the wine to the host. The waiter will generally circulate around the tables and offer to fill any empty glasses. If the waiter is not at hand, normally eye contact with the waiter is all that is required to grab his attention. Do not make a commotion or scene. If no service is forthcoming then the host should approach another member of the staff mentioning you require service.

12) Finally it's time to pay the bill. The host will do this discreetly, and preferably away from the table. Tips in Australia are not compulsory, nor expected, and are therefore left to personal preference. If paying the bill separately, request this before ordering the meal to save your group and the staff a lot of time.

13) For additional dining tips such as how to pass the salt & pepper, when to eat with your fingers, how to eating soup........ Click Here.

For some great restaurants in your local area refer to our Restaurant Business Directory.

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