Do you seat yourself in French restaurants?

In a fast food restaurant, usually you just choose the seat by yourself. In a fancier restaurant or if there are too many diners, usually the waiter will tell you where to sit. Rule of thumb, wait to be seated, but by all means indicate that you fancy this particular table.



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  • Take your time!


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It is simply considered good manners to say Bonjour (hello) upon entering a restaurant or any place of business, acknowledging both the shop owner and the other customers. Upon leaving, one always says “Au revoir” (good bye). “Bonsoir” (good evening) is generally used after 6:00 pm.

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Unless you're with close friends on a casual event, it's usually considered rude to leave the table before the meal ends. Of course, if you have a reasonable excuse to do so, nobody will throw rocks at you, but it's generally better not to be in a rush. Santé !

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Tipping is not required in France (although there are a few exceptions). You don't need to tip French waitstaff because they get a living wage and benefits. It is NOT considered rude to tip in France. There is no standard percentage for tips in France.

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The convenience of electricity meant mealtimes extended later into the evening as we no longer rely on natural sunlight to cook and illuminate the dining table. French people usually eat a smaller meal for dinner, such as a soup or salad with bread and a dessert (often a yoghurt or a slice of cheese).

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Most bars in Paris close between 1 and 2am, just in time to catch the last metro. But if you want to stay out all night, clubs (known as boîtes de nuit) stay open until 6am, perfect for dancing the night away and then heading home on the first train!

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