#8: Wait to Be Seated

In the United States, it’s customary for diners to wait at the restaurant’s entrance, where a server or host will greet them and lead them to a table. However, this practice differs from many European restaurants, where it’s not always the norm. In Europe, particularly in more casual dining establishments, customers often find their own tables or seats without waiting to be seated by staff.

This difference in dining etiquette can sometimes catch American tourists off guard, as they may be accustomed to the American tradition of being seated promptly upon arrival. Understanding and adapting to these cultural variations in restaurant protocols is essential for travelers to navigate dining experiences gracefully while abroad.