French Restaurant: An Insider's Guide
Updated on 2024-12-18
Making Reservations
Essential Phrases
-
Booking
- "Je voudrais réserver une table" (I would like to book a table)
- State date, time, number of people clearly
- Confirm by repeating details
-
Special Requests
- "En terrasse" (outdoor seating)
- "À l'intérieur" (indoor seating)
- "Près de la fenêtre" (by the window)
Arrival and Seating
First Steps
-
Greeting
- Always say "Bonjour/Bonsoir" when entering
- Wait to be seated unless signs say otherwise
- Never seat yourself without confirmation
-
Initial Service
- Menu presentation
- Water preference request
- Wine list offering
Ordering Process
Menu Navigation
-
"La formule" (Set menu)
- Best value option
- Usually 2-3 courses
- Limited but fresh choices
-
"À la carte"
- Individual item selection
- More expensive
- Greater variety
Timing Your Order
-
Drinks first
- Aperitif options
- Wine selection
- Water preference
-
Food second
- All courses ordered at once
- Modifications politely requested
- Specify cooking preferences
During the Meal
Service Interaction
-
Getting Attention
- Make eye contact
- Slight hand raise
- "S'il vous plaît" when needed
-
Common Requests
- "La carte des vins" (wine list)
- "Un peu plus de pain" (more bread)
- "L'addition" (the bill)
Payment Protocol
Bill Settlement
-
Requesting Check
- Never brought automatically
- Must be specifically requested
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît"
-
Payment Methods
- Cards widely accepted
- Cash always welcome
- Splits usually accepted
-
Tipping Notes
- Service included in price
- Extra tips 5-10% if pleased
- Small change acceptable
Special Considerations
Dietary Requirements
-
Vegetarian
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)"
- Specify no meat/fish
- Ask about ingredients
-
Allergies
- State clearly: "Je suis allergique à..."
- Confirm understanding
- Double-check ingredients
French restaurants value their culinary traditions while accommodating modern dining needs. Clear communication and respect for customs ensure the best experience.