4 Things I Learned After My Last Dinner Date…

4 Things I Learned

After My Last

Dinner Date…

by Lisa Laird

Recently, I went out to dinner with a new guy I met at a workshop.  I must admit,  I felt a bit intimidated because he seemed so cosmopolitan and well-traveled.  We went to a French restaurant, and when the waiter put the menu in my hand, I felt even more intimidated, because I couldn’t understand some of the languages on the menu, and he seemed to be well-versed.

However, when I observed his reluctance to ask the waiter to change our “bad” table because he didn’t wish to make a fuss, I felt better and less chagrined about my menu ignorance.  This thought came to me because if I had been out with girlfriends, I would have easily asked to have my table changed, but I allowed him to be in charge with respect for the male ego.

The next day, however, I got busy and educated myself on all of the etiquette details of things I should know about dining out, and I share them now with you, just in case you may be in the dark as well.

When You Get a Lousy Table…

Not all restaurant tables are created equal.  Those near the bathroom, kitchen, or busing stations may be less desirable than those in quiet corners, near the window, or with a view.  If you are dissatisfied with your table as you are led to it, kindly suggest that your date asks for a more suitable one. Tipping the maitre d’ also helps you get a better table.

Ordering the Meal

The guy should give the waiter the order for him and his companion.  In other words, she tells him and he tells the waiter.

Ordering Wine

On a date, the ordering of everything including the drinks should come from the guy.  He should be in charge at all times at the table.  The wine steward, or sommelier, can help you choose a wine that suits the meal. Generally speaking, you should match the color of the wine to the color of the food:  red for meats, white for fish.  When in doubt, order what you want.  Above all else, the wine you like is the wine that’s right.

When the Meal is Served

No one should begin eating until everyone has been served.