As with all things in life, there is a right way and a wrong way to act even in restaurants. Often times we forget that in order to function properly in society we all need to obey and recognize those rules and guidelines which dictate how we treat others. This is especially true as you interact with the men and women who work in diners and other eateries. Now, when visiting Canada you must be aware of how their table etiquette differs from the etiquette you are accustomed to but overall good manners is a universal language.

While we may say our “Pleases” and “Thank yous” at home we often forget to do this when out and about. Remember, just because someone else is doing the cooking, serving, and cleaning does not give you the right to act rude and ignorant. Unless you are taking tea with the Queen you are not obligated to stand on ceremony but you should certainly be well behaved at least enough to avoid making a fool out of yourself and your dinner party.

So, let us review some basic table manners. One of the major points to remember is to never ever talk with your mouth full of food or drink. Not only is this going to cause a mess but it is also going to be absolutely revolting to your companions and even to the service staff. So do not ask for more drink with your mouth full of salad or bread, it is not only rude but disgusting as well.

That napkin is there for a purpose so use it. You may not be accustomed to cloth napkins so here are some points to remember. If it is a smaller size napkin keep it unfolded and on your lap. Larger napkins are usually folded in half but they are still kept in your lap. Use the napkin to dab at the corner of your mouth and if need be, other areas of your face. Do not use it as a tissue or to clean up spills.

Children are always welcomed in many restaurant and diners. While well behaved children are an absolute delight, those children who are loud, throw things, and are rude are simply tolerated. Do not let your children run the table this is just not acceptable. Would you allow your child to address you rudely so why let the child address the server rudely? Would your child ever throw things on your floor? Do not let the child do it out in public.

While tipping can be tricky there are a few universally agreed upon rules that you can follow. If the host is picking up the bill it is generally understood that he is going to take care of the tip as well. You should never leave anything extra even if you do not find the amount fair; this is just insulting to your host. Gratuity is usually added to large groups but feel free to add more if the service was beyond par. Fifteen to twenty percent of the bill is considered an average tip. If everyone is responsible for their own bill then they are also responsible for their own tips. Do not tip less then the smallest tip amount or much more then the largest amount.

Now, there are several more outdated rules of etiquette that you may or may not choose to follow. An example is passing to the right. In a family style restaurant you will often see the older generation passing the salad bowl or basket of bread to the right. Often times, people will wait until everyone is served before eating. Many people choose to eat after prayer which is said after the meal is served but others simply wait. While this is polite it now depends on the company you keep if you should still follow this etiquette rule. If you are with familiar friends of the same age you probably will not have to wait until everyone has their plate.

While visiting diners and eateries is a great way to impress you party and even your boss you should not overlook the importance of the small things in life like good table manners. If you are in a different country make sure to follow any local costumes and etiquette. While restaurants are a great chance for social interaction make sure that you do without being rude.

There are a variety of places that you can go to purchas your meal, you can choose to eat at home with your family and pets and pick up your food at a grocery store, or you can choose to eat out at a restaurant or fast food place.