1. How To Visit a Restaurant in France
By: Emily Shaker

2. When To Go
If you are planning to eat lunch, arrive between noon and 3:00 p.m.
If you are planning for dinner, arrive between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
Most restaurants in France close between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
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3. Proper Etiquette
As always in France, it is important to greet everyone with “Bonjour, Monsieur” or “Bonjour, Madame”. [click sound icon to hear “bonjour”]
The waiter is called “le garçon”.
Unlike in the United States, the customer is NOT always right.
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4. The Word “Menu”
The word “menu” does not mean the same thing as it does in English.
If you would like to see a price list, you should ask for “une carte”.
The “menu” is the fixed-price, three or four course meal offered by the restaurant.
This is usually the least expensive way to order a full meal.
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5. Placing an Order
Start with an “Entrée” This is the appetizer, or first course.
Next, choose one of the “Plats Principaux”, or main courses.
“Le Fromage” (the cheese course) comes before dessert.
Finally, choose your “Dessert”.
This will probably be one of the best meals you will ever have.
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6. Paying the Bill
To obtain your bill, ask “le garçon” for “l’addition, s’il vous plaît” [click sound icon to hear s’il vous plaît]
Check to see if the menu has the words, “service non-compris” printed in it (“gratuity not included”) Unless specified, the gratuity is included in the price of the meal.
Regardless, you should leave a small tip for your waiter (just round up).
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7. Other Notes
If you order water, the waiter will bring bottled water. For tap water, ask for “une carafe d’eau” or “de l’eau du robinet”.
Do not go into a formal restaurant in France expecting to order only one course. If you would like a simple sandwich, visit a café.
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8. Departure
Be sure and say goodbye to the host or hostess: “Au revoir, Monsieur” or “Au revoir, Madame” It is only proper [click sound icon to hear “au revoir”]
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9. Bonne Chance!
Good luck! You’ll need it: The French and their ways can be very difficult to get used to.
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