The sheer idea of dining at a fine dining restaurant is enough to have you smiling for the days to come. It’s luxury served on a plate, well, several plates. It’ll tantalise your senses, give you the royal treatment you deserve and have you craving food and hospitality like no other.
The elaborate guide to Indian fine dining
Fine dining is a special occasion that calls for impeccable manners. By following a set of rules that are simple to follow, you can help have a pleasant and enjoyable dining experience, both for yourself and for those you’re accompanying.
Dressing right is very important for a fine dining experience. Fine dining restaurants often have a dress code which you can check in about – either give them a call or scroll through the website. One is expected to wear a dress shirt or a more formal attire. Dressing well helps maintain the ambience of the restaurant and also maintains your own self-image when you’re dining at a place dedicated to making you feel special.
Be punctual. Arriving in time for your booking helps you remain calm and ready for a culinary experience. It also gives the restaurant enough time to prepare to accommodate you and prepare the staff. Being late would only further delay the process, and you’d have to wait for a prolonged period of time. Be sure to call the restaurant and update them about the status of your arrival in case of any changes.
Be respectful. The staff at the restaurant are trained to provide you with a dining experience that is bound to make you feel fabulous. However, to help them maintain this nature, it’s important that you reciprocate their effort, be polite and greet them respectfully. Maintain eye contact while speaking to them and try to get their names right. Remember that people behave best when happy, which goes both ways.
Table etiquette is not to be taken lightly. How you interact with the tools and meals on a table speaks volumes about your concern for those dining with you and those serving you. There are cues you can follow to help facilitate a smooth dining experience for yourself and your servers. Maintain the proper sitting posture; don’t talk with your mouth full or spill items on the table. When you’re done eating, place your fork and spoon on the right-hand side between four or six o’clock positions. Use the napkin and place it on your lap so you avoid spilling. Bring the spoon to your mouth, avoid chewing loudly and ensure that you eat cleanly.
Eat at a moderate pace. Enjoy the exquisite food before you, but do not slow down to a point where you mess up your own dining experience. Thank your servers.
Be mindful of your noise level. The fine dining experience brings you an ambience that is relaxing and calming. Ensure you don’t ruin the same experience for other customers dining in with you.
Try to avoid using your cell phone. Do not have your flash switched on. The effect of the fine dining space should not be disturbed for the sake of your amusement.
Be patient. While you are free to communicate your needs and expectations, try to be patient with the staff and the chefs as they curate a perfect dining experience for you and other customers dining at the place on that given day. Politeness and patience go a long way.
Final thoughts
Indian fine dining etiquette helps you ensure that you, your servers and those dining with and alongside you have the best possible time. Being considerate is free, and given how expensive this luxurious affair is, it’s the least you can do. Try to remember these simple tips, and when you’re unsure, just act out of kindness and ask around for some help. It doesn’t have to be an intimidating experience. Remember to enjoy every bite, compliment when it feels right to you and appreciate the effort put in!
Also read – Fine Dining Restaurants in Hebbal with Irresistible Buffet Menus
A food enthusiast and a blogger – someone who likes to eat and write about it. I’m passionate about exploring different cuisines and challenging my palette. I give into my food craving regularly and am often on the hunt to find my new favorite food place in town.
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