Restaurant etiquette is actually more important you think. It shows respect to the waitress, owner, and chef. It not only shows respect to the ones working, but it also shows respect for yourself and the people around you. Manners could start in a lot of places, but one to look at first happens before you even step out of the house. For nicer dinners, try and make reservations. It shows the restaurant that you actually want to be there.

Being late can come off as careless and disrespectful, so make sure you’re on time for your reservation. Once you get to the table, pick your seat with ease, so it is not a big disruption. Once you sit down and in your place, put your napkin on your lap to avoid messes. Always use your manners like please, thank you, and ma’am or sir. If someone else is paying for you, look at the menu try to not pick the most expensive thing.

Try your food before adding salt or pepper. It can insult the chef by adding things before trying the food. Tipping the waiter is a really important thing. You should always tip 20% but sometimes more if the service is exceptional. Baseline tips are 20%, but that’s just a starting point. The server could show a lot of good attitude and kindness, and a generous tip is always kind and shows respect.

Keep these things in mind the next time you go out to eat.