Eating out in the USA
Plain advice for a better restaurant night.
Booking
Popular restaurants fill up on Friday and Saturday evenings. Book several days ahead, or arrive early or late for a shorter wait. Many places release tables 2 to 4 weeks in advance, so check the restaurant's own site.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in the USA. A common range for table service is 18 to 22 percent of the pre-tax bill. Counter service and takeout tips are optional and smaller. Check your bill for an included service charge before adding more.
Ordering well
- Ask your server what the kitchen does best tonight.
- Share a few starters and one dessert for the table.
- Tell your server about allergies before you order. Restaurants must take this seriously, and good ones do.
Cook it at home first
Order a dish you love, then try to recreate it from our recipes. It teaches you more than any cookbook.