What does “fine dining” mean to you? Delicacies plated beautifully? A sophisticated ambience?
Along with these, if you also thought of “etiquette”, you’re correct. There are different expectations when it comes to behaviour. It can feel a little daunting if you don’t know these rules.
However, the rules aren’t that challenging to follow. With a little self-awareness and enough preparation, you can be comfortable in any of the best restaurants in Park Street, Kolkata!
Whether you’re new or just looking for clarification, let’s take a closer look at fine dining etiquette.
Rule of Etiquette in Luxury Restaurants in Kolkata
Table of Contents
Making Reservations
In some cases, like the time of the day or certain days of the year, it might be possible to get a table by just showing up. However, for the most part, you need a reservation.
There’s usually a high demand at the best fine-dining restaurants in Kolkata. So, the chances of you getting a seat without a reservation are slim. Some restaurants might not let you sit without one. Make the call or go online to set up the reservation.
Check the Dress Code
You will need to spend a little time planning your outfit before the meal. Some of the best places to eat in Kolkata don’t come with a dress code, but there are some that do. They might enforce their rule so strictly that you may be turned away if you don’t wear the right thing.
However, don’t be intimidated by dress codes. Just go through the restaurant’s social media profile. Check their website to see if they enforce the dress code. You can also view the posted images to get an idea of the ambience, which can help you know how you should dress. A more luxurious setting often requires classier attire. A more laid-back ambience could imply you don’t need to show up in a three-piece suit. Search for online reviews as well and see what other guests were wearing.
The best way to get rid of any doubts is to call the restaurant directly! Fine dining restaurants at, for instance, The Park Hotels Kolkata have a number on their website you can call.
Ordering the Meal
If the party orders a similar number of courses, it’s best for everyone. It helps the servers to time when to bring the dishes to the table. Additionally, it’s more pleasant if everyone is eating at the same time. Unlike at a cafe in Park Street, Kolkata, it’s not recommended to order one thing at a time.
Your server will be observant; they will know when you’re ready to order. Even if they aren’t around you when you’re ready to order, just close your menu and lay it on the table. This will signal them that you’re ready to order.
When you need your server’s attention, make eye contact. You can also raise your hand a little, no higher than your shoulder, and don’t wave. Snapping, making gestures, or raising your voice is rude and unnecessary. Servers are professionals, so they know the signs of when they are needed.
Lastly, if you have allergies, please let your server know.
Basic Fine Dining Dos and Don’ts
“Have respect for your surroundings.”
If nothing else, this is the fundamental rule of fine dining. Here’s a list of some of the basic dining manners:
- You can begin to eat only after everyone has been served.
- Eat at the same pace as everyone else. This is the sociable and polite thing to do, and it helps the servers.
- Don’t season your food before tasting it.
- Don’t place bones or inedible things in your napkin or on the table. Place them together on the plate. Usually, it needs to be on the upper left.
- Keep your plate’s edges clean. This makes it easier for the servers to take them away.
- While you’re encouraged to have a good time, make sure not to be noisy.
- This is self-explanatory, but don’t use your phone.
- If you drop your fork or knife, don’t pick it up. Your server will pick it up and replace it with a new one.
- There’s no need to stack your plates on the table after you’re done with your meal.
- Don’t linger once your meal and payment are done. While some of the best cafes in Kolkata might encourage this behaviour, it’s advisable not to do the same at fine-dining restaurants.
There’s amazing food for every budget. But fine dining has a certain level of elegance and excitement that transcends the usual dining experience! And it might look intimidating, but you can enjoy it nevertheless with these tips.
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