The average American will notice significant differences in restaurants in France (and Europe in general) compared to home. Here are a few:
- Waiting on customers is considered an interim position in the US. Students and starving artists of all types make up a high percentage of waitstaff. In Europe, especially in high-end restaurants, customer service is considered a profession.
- There’s no tipping waitstaff in France. They’re paid a flat salary, which is usually a living wage.
- There are fewer waitstaff in French restaurants and cafés, so they’re in perpetual motion on busy evenings.
- Don’t expect the “Hi, I’m Heather and I’ll be your server tonight” treatment. Because of the last two bullet points, they don’t have time to chitchat. However, if you want detailed information on the menu items or wine list, the waitstaff in France will be able to answer your questions.
Here are a couple recommendations to keep you in good stead with French restaurant staff:
- Some waitstaff in France can speak English; however, it helps to start off with some French.
- Don’t call a waiter “garçon.” The translation is boy, and is an insult in any language. If your server is male, call him “monsieur.” If you want to get a waiter’s or waitress’s attention, make eye contact or subtly wave your hand.
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