Eating out should be simple and enjoyable, but sometimes small missteps can make you stick out as someone who’s new to dining out. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or trying a fancier spot, there are certain actions that can give away your inexperience.
Knowing what to avoid can help you feel more confident and make a better impression next time you’re at a restaurant. These common mistakes aren’t about being perfect—they’re just about understanding how things usually go.
Using your phone at the table while eating
Using your phone during a meal can come off as rude. It distracts you from the food and the people you’re with.
It also makes you seem less engaged, like you’re not fully there. Plus, it can keep you from enjoying the experience.
Putting your phone away shows respect and helps you focus on the moment. It’s a small move that makes a big difference in how you come across.
Ordering off-menu without checking first
Ordering something off-menu can be fun, but doing it without checking first can backfire. You might ask for something the kitchen can’t make or isn’t prepared for.
It’s always a good idea to glance over the menu or even ask the server if off-menu orders are welcome. This shows you respect the kitchen’s workflow.
Jumping straight to a custom order can slow down service and make things awkward. A little prep helps keep your meal smooth and stress-free.
Stacking dirty dishes instead of waiting for staff
It might seem helpful to stack your dirty plates, but it usually isn’t. Servers prefer to clear tables on their own schedule to keep things running smoothly.
Seeing a stack can signal the table has been waiting too long, which may actually reflect poorly on the service.
At casual spots, it’s sometimes more accepted, especially if the table is packed. But at most restaurants, just leave your dishes as they are and let the staff handle it.
Skipping the tip or leaving a weird amount
Not leaving a tip can quickly make you look like you don’t know how restaurant dining works. Servers depend on tips as a big part of their income, so skipping it feels rude.
Leaving an odd or random amount, like $5 on a $70 bill, can seem thoughtless. It’s better to tip a percentage based on the total bill, usually around 15-20%.
Tipping weird amounts or gifts instead of cash can confuse or frustrate your server. Keeping it simple with a clear, proportional tip shows you get how this side of dining goes.
Talking loudly or interrupting the server
If you talk loudly while the server is taking orders or explaining the menu, it can feel disrespectful and throw off their focus.
Interrupting them mid-sentence not only slows down service but also makes it harder for you to get all the information you need.
Wait until they finish speaking, then ask your questions or place your order. Staying patient shows you’re considerate and helps keep things running smoothly.
