We’ve all been there. You’re at a lovely dinner out at a French bistro with friends, you’ve placed your orders, the food comes out, and—there’s no ketchup. What do you do? Everyone else is going about their business as normal. Can you ask for some? Is that acceptable? How do you even know?
This video by Rosie of Not Even French is about to be your saving grace. Rosie explains the common French dining faux pas that will mark you immediately as a rude outsider. Some examples include:
- While you may be tempted to ask for butter or a plate for your bread, the custom is to eat the bread plain and keep it on the tablecloth once it has been removed from the bread basket.
- Sodas and beers are not to be ordered with dinner—strictly water or wine.
- And when cheersing your neighbors, don’t forget to look everyone in the eye… or you might regret the consequences.
A good general rule of thumb is that everything comes as it is. If you have to ask for something extra to be brought out, it’s probably not something you need. Trust the chef and the waiter to bring you a good meal, and you’re sure to enjoy one.
