4 Ways You Might Be Coming Off as a Snob at a Fancy Restaurant

Dining at an upscale restaurant is more than just savouring gourmet dishes—it’s about showing respect for the experience and those around you. According to etiquette experts, there are a few key mistakes that can make you seem a bit snobbish, even if you don’t mean to. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common missteps people make when dining at high-end restaurants—and how to avoid them.

1. Ignoring the Staff

While it’s easy to focus on the menu and atmosphere, one of the biggest faux pas is not paying enough attention to the restaurant staff. Building a rapport with your server is more than polite; it’s part of the fine dining experience. Introduce yourself, learn their name, and engage with them respectfully. It shows appreciation for their service and helps set the tone for the meal.

2. Arriving Late

Arriving fashionably late may seem harmless, but at high-end restaurants, it’s a major no-no. The flow of service at these establishments is often finely timed, and showing up late can throw off not only your meal but also the experience for others. Punctuality is a sign of respect for both the restaurant’s staff and the people dining with you.

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3. Underdressing

You might think dressing down is more relaxed, but at an upscale spot, underdressing can be seen as a form of snobbery. Not following the dress code implies a disregard for the restaurant’s standards and the effort they put into creating an elegant atmosphere. It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than too casual.

4. Skimping on the Tip

Gratuity is another area where people can slip up. The general rule of thumb at high-end restaurants is to leave a minimum 20% tip. Skipping this or tipping poorly comes across as not valuing the hard work of the staff, who often rely on tips as a significant part of their income.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your next fine dining experience is a class act—without the unintentional snob factor.