Jan
28
Some etiquette tips on dealing with the restaurant check from Emily Post
Filed Under Image & Brand, Relationships & Networking
Here are some etiquette tips on dealing with the restaurant check from Emily Post…
“Everyone has at some time or other been subjected to the awkward moment when the waiter presents the check to the host. For a host to count up the items is suggestive of parsimony, while not to look at them is disconcertingly reckless, and to pay before their faces for what his guests have eaten is embarrassing. Having the check presented to a hostess when gentlemen are among her guests, is more unpleasant. Therefore, to avoid this whole transaction, people who have not charge accounts, should order the meal ahead, and at the same time pay for it in advance, including the waiter’s tip. Charge customers should make arrangements to have the check presented to them elsewhere than at table.”
A slight variation to this, which I do when I am determined to pay for my guests, is to ensure I arrive at the restaurant and that I am seated before my guests… in turn, when the waiter or waitress comes around to take my initial drink order (before my guests arrive), I give him/her my credit card and ask him/her to hold it and charge the entire group check to my card. This allows me to treat my guests without an awkward debate. If they insist on contributing, then I suggest they simply pay next time.
