Beyond the Bistro: Must Know French Dining Etiquette - By: Kurt Brian

Dining in France is way different than what you are accustomed to. As a matter of fact, eating out in France is far from the typical Australian dining experience. Thus, it is very important to know the basic etiquette of dining chez le Francais to avoid unnecessary uncomfortable moments.

Here are the Les Faut Pas qu’il Les Faut Pas faire (errors to avoid) when dining in a French restaurant or dining with a French host.

Time

The French are very particular with time. You cannot go into a French restaurant anytime of the day and expect to be served with a proper meal. Brunch is 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, Lunch is at 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm and dinner is at 8:00 pm until late at night.

In Ordering

If you are accustomed to ordering from the appetisers down to desserts and refreshments, you might want to order your food one at a time. French waiters start taking orders from the appetiser, then go around for the soup up to the main course, dessert and coffee. After all food have been served, that is only the time you can order for drinks. Take note that aperitif orders are taken upon your arrival.

Coffee

Coffee is always served at the end of the meal and is not served with desserts. If you do, good luck on convincing the waiters to serve you both. However, if you like something sweet with your coffee, you can instead order for Café gourmand – a coffee and a few small pastries.

Other Important Details to Remember

- Always address waiters appropriately. Monsieur for men and madame or mademoiselle for women and never call a male waiter with garcon.

- French always fills the glass half full.

- Always put your hands on the table not on your lap or anywhere where the French cannot see them. Moreover, always observe proper posture at all times. No folding of arms or slouching on your back especially after you have eaten.

- Doggy bags are a taboo in France. Do not even attempt to ask for one.

These are just a few of the table manners you should remember when dining in a French restaurant. Speaking of which, if you fancy a sumptuous French cuisine, no need to pack your bags and travel to Paris to satisfy your Parisan dining craving. You do not need to look farther either.

You can absolutely enjoy an exquisite French dining experience right at the very heart of Adelaide. Introducing The Marquis, which brings contemporary Parisian dining to the centre of Adelaide.

Experience boutique wines by the glass matched with a French inspired kitchen.

For enquiries, bookings and reservations call The Marquis at 61 8 7071 7700

or their official website at http://www.themarquis.com.au/

About the Author

I'm a business expert who helps THEMARQUIS increase its visits and sales. To know more about Adelaide venues and all of their other services/products offered in UK please visit their website @ http://www.themarquis.com.au or you may call them through 61 8 7071 7700

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