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Baby Knows Best- Consume in Casual Comfort

  • Shari Ilsen
  • May 8, 2009
Happy Infant in a High Chair, Vintage Baby Por...
Baby Knows How to Dine Out

Let me explain something.  While I’m an eminent expert on fancy dining in theory, in reality romantic dinners are kind of jumping the gun in terms of my development.  Casual dining, however, is something I have more experience with, so pay attention.

Consume in Casual Comfort

Casual dining has become the norm in the world of eating out.  I’m talking mid-priced, sit-down establishements with menus and servers.  I’ve noticed adults patronizing these places for business, for catching up with friends, and for family outings.  It’s not necessary to be quite as worried about manners in these places as I know you all are when going fancy.  However, you often go to these places in big groups, or with families, so these are some guidelines to help make your meal more comfortable and smooth.

Reservations
Unlike fancy places, you won’t necessarily need reservations at a casual restaurant.  If you’re unsure, call and ask.  If it’s a weekend or if you’re coming with a group of more than 4 people, it’s probably a good idea to make a reservation.  If you DON’T make one, you are absolutely not allowed to be upset when the hostess tells you it will be a 20 minute wait.  Unlike me, you should have an attention span and patience for periods of more than 5 minutes, so deal with it gracefully.

Dress
Anything ranging from jeans to business casual attire is acceptable.  Do not under any circumstances wear something with tears or holes in it.  For daddies, it’s best to wear a collared shirt.  Mommies, don’t wear anything too low-cut or revealing- remember you’re setting an example for me and you don’t want me attending kindergarten graduation in fishnets and a miniskirt.

Wine and Drinking
It’s unlikely a casual restaurant will have a staff person dedicated to wine, so if you have a question about the wine list it’s fine to ask your server.  You shouldn’t expect him or her to know everything about those wines, however.  You will most likely be making this decision on your own.  The upside is no one will freak out if you order red wine with your fish or white with your steak, or champagne for my cheerios and pureed squash.  The downside is that there is no one to blame but yourself if Bordeaux just doesn’t fully complement the taste of pureed squash.
Many places will also have a full bar that serves beer and cocktails.  In general, it’s rude to order alcohol unless others in your group are also imbibing.  My bottle doesn’t count, even if it is breast milk.  Be sure to always designate a sober driver (no, I’m not eligible), and never give children alcohol, no matter what you do at home.  You will be kicked out of the restaurant immediately.  Finally, don’t get so drunk that you start spilling things everywhere.  That’s my job.

Electronics
While no one will stamp a scarlet “C” on your forehead for using a cell phone in a casual restaurant, it’s still highly frowned upon.  Turn your phone to vibrate and make or take any essential calls in the bathroom or outside, never at the table.  Keep your phone in your pocket, not on the table in front of you.  And no texting.  I don’t care how “omg lol” it is.  I’m a baby- I can’t spell, and even I know how rude those acronyms can be.

Children
Well at least I’m allowed in this case.  Many casual restaurants will have high chairs you can request for babies, but one peep out of me and you need to take me outside.  It’s not okay to be “that noisy table.”  If your kids can’t sit still during the meal without a Game Boy, don’t bring them.
The majority of these places won’t have a special kid’s meal, so if your kids are super picky it’s a good idea to check out the menu before bringing them along (not me- I’ll eat anything that’s mashed up and sticky).  Chances are the chef won’t have a problem making plain pasta or plain chicken, if your kids will eat that.

Tip
If you’re with a large group, figure out as soon as you sit down how you will pay.  If you want separate checks, inform your server immediately.  If you are in a couple, do NOT fight about who will pay. This is even more annoying than a screaming baby or unruly kids, and can sometimes lead to just as much whining and hair-pulling.  (I won’t name names, but you know who you are).
For large groups, the tip is almost always included, however if it isn’t, 18-20% is standard.

Remember that these casual restaurants are trying to maintain a calm, comfortable atmosphere, so try and blend in.  Considering what I put you through, a chance for a calm, comfortable meal is something you should embrace.

Next I’ll be discussing dining etiquette in fast food restaurants and diners.  Just please don’t take me to these places too often- I’m cute now, but there’s a difference between a pudgy baby and an obese middle-schooler.

Related Articles:

Baby Knows Best: Forestall Fancy Faux Pas

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