But to the contrary, Portugal does not abide by the same rules – except in cafes and pastry shops. Although typically lacking a host or a “Please Wait To Be Seated” sign, you will almost always have a server spot you, waiting for you to give the ubiquitous hand gesture as to the number of people in your party.

In Portugal, the general rule is to wait to be seated, especially at dinner or in "restaurantes" and "marisqueiras." Even if a dining room appears half-empty, there is often a complex reservation system or a specific server assigned to certain tables. When you enter, make eye contact with a staff member and ask, "Mesa para dois, por favor?" (Table for two, please?). However, at more casual "Pastelarias" (bakeries) or "Tascas" (local taverns) during the busy lunch hour, the culture is more relaxed; if you see an open table in a chaotic, informal setting, you can occasionally point to it and ask the counter staff if it’s free. In 2026, it remains a "pro" tip to be aware of the "couvert"—the bread, olives, and cheese placed on your table at the start. These are not free; you are only charged for what you eat. If you don't want them, simply say "Não, obrigado" and they will be removed. If you seat yourself and begin eating the couvert without a server's acknowledgment, it is considered quite impolite in Portuguese dining etiquette.