Dining out

• Taking people out to dine ought to be a pleasant experience for all concerned.

• When you know that a place is popular, make reservations well ahead.

• Specify the number of guests and any special preferences or needs.

• If you need to cancel a booking, do it in time.

• At the restaurant, never wave or snap for attention.

• Never cause disturbances. no matter what the apparent provocation.

• Keep children in their places. literally too.

• It's okay to ask for a translation if the menu has names of unfamiliar exotic dishes.

• Remember to thank those that serve you.

• If you need to sign a guest book, don't be too critical.

• Do compliment generously.

• Tips can be expanded to read "To Insure Prompt Service". and is often a token of appreciation.

To tip or not to tip is often a dilemma. If tips are in order, then, how much to tip? Oft asked questions with very simple guidelines, that work the world over.

• At restaurants, 10-15% of the bill value is acceptable as gratuity.
• When your host forgets to tip, do leave a discreet amount behind.
• Guests need not tip the servants of the house, but a token given discreetly would always be welcome.
• Club employees are used to random tipping but 10-15% is a reasonable option.

Benefits:

By now, you should be well-versed in the art of fine dining.
Both as a guest and as a hostess.
You should be at ease, whether you are dining at home or at a fancy get-together.

Nothing teaches like experience. Try these out.

Plan a small get-together.

• Send out invitations. Mention 'R.S.V.P '.
• Plan a balanced guest-list and see the difference. Remember to invite friends who know each other and some that are new to each other.
• Plan a good menu that wins rave reviews.

Now make note, but don't comment on

• How many of your friends responded to the RSVP?
• How many were thoughtful enough to offer help or bring along some flowers or gift?
• How many faux pas did you notice?
• Did you find yourself guiding the party along with confidence?

Assess yourself. You are your tutor, guide, mentor and best critic.

In the same way, plan a formal meal out at a fancy restaurant. Give yourself this test, let others think of it as a treat!