Attention Adults: Practice Good Manners While Dining Out

Dining out with family is one of my favorite activities. After a hectic day, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a meal together, whether it’s at our beloved Mexican or Chinese restaurant or sneaking away with one child to a cozy café or fast food spot. The best part? No cooking or cleaning up! Kids usually prefer restaurant food over home-cooked meals, and I can see why—it’s a treat for them. But while we’re enjoying our meals, I’m a firm believer in teaching my kids about manners.

I’m not just talking about the basics like chewing with your mouth closed or using a napkin. It’s essential for my children to understand that others are there to enjoy their meals too, and the restaurant staff deserve respect as well. Good manners go beyond simple etiquette; they’re about being considerate of those around you. I don’t expect my kids to be perfect, but I continually remind them to behave appropriately.

Kids don’t master manners in a single outing, and as adults, we need to set a good example. Here are some of the ways I’m helping my children develop their dining etiquette:

Tip Generously.

Let’s face it—kids can create a bigger mess, so a higher tip is warranted. Waitstaff rely heavily on tips to make ends meet. Sure, you might have a bad experience occasionally, but most servers are working hard to provide a good service. They’re on their feet, carrying heavy trays, refilling drinks, and cleaning up after us. So why not brighten their day by leaving a generous tip?

Leave the Table Tidy.

While it’s part of a server’s job to clean up, it’s common courtesy to pick up after yourself. If your child spills fries or leaves napkins everywhere, do your part and help clean up. It’s all about being respectful to the staff who are there to serve you.

Be Polite to the Staff.

Waitstaff work incredibly hard. If the food isn’t up to par or if service is slow, remember it’s not the server’s fault. They’re likely doing their best, so keep your cool and be courteous. A little kindness goes a long way.

Avoid Loud Conversations on Speakerphone.

Using speakerphone in a restaurant is simply inconsiderate. Nobody wants to overhear your chat about work or personal matters while they’re trying to enjoy their meal. Keep your voice down or take the call outside.

Manage Your Child’s Behavior.

If your child starts screaming, it’s important to address the situation promptly. While it can be tough to leave a restaurant quickly, letting them have a full meltdown isn’t fair to other diners. It’s better to take them outside to calm down.

Support Other Parents.

If you see someone struggling with their child, don’t add to their stress with judgmental looks or unsolicited advice. A simple “Can I help?” or “You’re doing great” can make a world of difference.

In short, let’s all strive to be polite while dining out. Teach your kids to behave as well. And remember—always tip your server! Now, let’s enjoy our meals without drama.

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