10 Things To KNOW about Restaurants ETIQUETTE in Paris

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  • čas přidán 26. 05. 2023
  • Do's and don't in a restaurant in Paris. 10 things you should know about etiquette in France.
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Komentáře • 787

  • @Troublee
    @Troublee Před 7 měsíci +131

    As I parisian waiter (sorry in advance for my english) I would like to react on each point :
    1 : Yes that's totally fine, feel free to notice it to your waiter, in this way he can gives you the appropriate cutlery.
    2 : Yes, I (and I think most of my colleague) prefer to give you a doggie bag, nobody like to throw food (even most of kitchens ask me "didn't they like it?" when I have to throw an unfinished dish to give you an idea).
    3 : It depends of what do you want to substitute, sometimes it's just impossible because of the dish itself but I don't agree on one point : It's pretty common to ask for a substitution, otherwise yes feel free to ask.
    4 : Totally agree, in most of time, if it's just because you don't like it, you will have to pay the dish, if it's the kitchen or the waiter who did a mistake don't worry you won't need to pay anything.
    5 : You can grab a table if you want, but I just let you know that we don't like this, yes you should ask someone to seat you (except if we say something like "sit wherever you like" for sure). It's a way for us to welcome you properly and to keep the control in the restaurant because it can be messy really quick. For the napkins that's false but you should following it (if there is a napkins that's for eat however it's just for a drink) but if you want absolutely one table particularly feel free to ask to your waiter. Except if it booked it should be fine.
    Exception for bars and terrace where it's common to just grab a table.
    6 : You can let a tip with your card, you have just to tell how much you want to tip before the payment, in this way your waiter will add the amount to the bill. If you still worry about this feel free to ask to your waiter if he accepts tip with credit card.
    7 : I never came to USA so I don't know how it works but yes during the service sometimes we really don't have a time (like even 30 second is a large amount of time for us). In any case if you have question feel free to ask them, a good waiter will always answer you with a smile. Yeah, except for taking order or to serve you dishes we don't come every minutes to ask you if everything's doing good. If we have time we try to do it for sure. Just be sure to know what you want to order/ask when you're calling us, people who calls us and are just like "soooo, 2 minutes please" are making us crazy. And no that's not a reason for you to wait, like if you're waiting more than 5 minutes the waiter for taking your order that's not normal (but please be comprehensive if the restaurant is full and you see your waiter running everywhere).
    In some restaurant we're pay in the percentage of our work but that's really rare.
    8 : In most of restaurant, we don't really look on it. If we see you finish you dish we come to take it, otherwise we don't. Also if you haven't finish you dish but you have finish to eat don't worry, we will notice it. A good waiter knows everything what happens in his tables.
    9 : Feel free to eat and put your hands in the way you want, except if you go in a really elegant restaurant like gastronomic and in this case yes : you should learn the french manners.
    10 : Feel free to put the bread where you want, but it's common to let the bread in its basket and the sliced bread in your plate. We know that US people use to eat butter with their bread so feel free to ask in the worst case you waiter could be surprise but whatever don't hesitate to ask it. In a casual bistro if we have the time to really take care of you we can serve you even after the first glass but as I said most of time we really don't have the time to do it.
    11 : If you want to eat a croissant or drink a coffee while walking, feel free to do it. People doesn't care about what you're doing.
    I discover your channel few days ago and I'm really curious about what US people think of France so I'm watching your videos and I really appreciate your content, you're giving really good advices.
    Also feel free to contact me if you have more questions and don't forget : it's useless to worry about how to behave or whatever, just be you (and kind) and everything will be fine.

    • @juliewalsh7401
      @juliewalsh7401 Před 6 měsíci +4

      Thank you for clarifying some points from an industry perspective! I am a waiter in a tourist destination in the Caribbean and many of these examples work here as well. We also have a more American clientele, but definitely quite a few tourists from Europe, Asia, and South America. We are planning a visit to your city next year and I am very excited to try new cuisines!

    • @enriquesanchez2001
      @enriquesanchez2001 Před 5 měsíci +3

      ♥♥♥♥ Merci!

    • @DTOC888
      @DTOC888 Před 4 měsíci +3

      Thank you for the additional information. Will keep this in mind when I visit Paris.

    • @cherrylleallan6366
      @cherrylleallan6366 Před 4 měsíci +2

      When I was in Paris I'm sure I didn't do everything by the book (Australian here) didn't speak French but with a smile and body language I think the French waiters were wonderful to us. We did other countries too and it's true Australia is Down Under, if I lived in Europe I would have got use to all the different languages as they're very close ❤️

    • @mountaingirl6479
      @mountaingirl6479 Před 3 měsíci +3

      Merci for your time to answer all these questions. We are planning a trip to Paris, trying to learn all we can before we leave.

  • @llaughridge
    @llaughridge Před rokem +342

    You missed two important things: 1. When ordering with a 'menu' (entree+plat+dessert ou fromage), do you tell the waiter everything you want up front (yes), or decide course-by-course? 2. With the credit card processing for a US-issued card, when the machine gives you a choice of $ or €, ALWAYS pick the local currency. If you pick Dollars, the vendor's card processor will do the currency exchange and it will be much worse than if you pick Euros and let your own bank do the currency exchange. ( Always pick local currency everywhere, not just in France.)

    • @carolamick8303
      @carolamick8303 Před rokem +12

      I think they covered this in other videos

    • @heleneg525
      @heleneg525 Před rokem +18

      @@carolamick8303 Suggestion: Instead of simply saying, "I think they covered this in other videos," why not just point the responder to another video that covers that topic! That would be more helpful.

    • @carolamick8303
      @carolamick8303 Před rokem +18

      @@heleneg525 I am sure it would. But I do not have them memorized.

    • @oakpope
      @oakpope Před rokem +30

      You generally order the entrée plus plat at the same time. Dessert after you have finished your plat. Except for desserts that take a long time to prepare. In that case the waiter will tell you to order dessert at the same time.

    • @heleneg525
      @heleneg525 Před rokem +10

      @@carolamick8303 I guess I was a little snarky. Best.

  • @joker75bis
    @joker75bis Před rokem +199

    I'm a parisian and all those advices seem rights and wise. And anyway, don't worry too much about the etiquette. if you keep smiling and kind most of situations can be arranged. Most of people will understand you're coming from another country. Paris is so touristical that most of waiters will be pleasant and benevolent. But sometimes you may meet bad waiter with bad manners. In that case, just keep on smiling. Just don't come to that place again and tell your friends. You'll laugh about it a few weeks later. A last advice: to not appear arrogant, if possible, use some french words. A single "bonjour ou bonsoir" can make all the difference.

    • @Pogouldangeliwitz
      @Pogouldangeliwitz Před 10 měsíci +12

      I'm Parisian too. While I usually don't like The Frenchies, I found this one to be mostly accurate. However, many restaurants do nowadays accept the tip to be paid by credit card. Just ask. And also it's perfectly accepted to walk around eating a croissant or even a sandwich. You don't have to sit down.

    • @iracture
      @iracture Před 10 měsíci +8

      yes please if a customer has to worry about being prim and propah while they enjoy a meal in foreign location, most will prefer to take their business elsewhere.

    • @sueforte4947
      @sueforte4947 Před 4 měsíci +1

      Merci helps too.

  • @lours6993
    @lours6993 Před 8 měsíci +97

    Parisian here. Good coverage of important points. Some more for Americans:
    - You can choose the accompaniment with some dishes: for example the choice of vegetables, but don’t ‘re-engineer’ the kitchen’s cuisine. I have seen Americans try to make 5 or more modifications to a salad. The maître d’hôtel had to explain to the woman that the menu outlines the dishes that are proposed. If she’d like something else, he invited her to go home and prepare it.
    - Don’t speak at 3 times the volume of the tables of French people around you. This is considered quite obnoxious. This may mean you need to consciously keep your voices down.
    - Don’t use these phrases, which are even considered impolite in English outside the US:
    - I’ll DO… or I’ll GET…. The staff are the ones doing and getting, not you. Say, ‘I would like’ or ‘Could I have..’
    - Bring me… Hopefully don’t need to explain
    - Not using Please and Thank You (or even S’il vous plait and Merci)
    - A meal is a ritual in France, not a functional transaction. Be ready to spend at least an hour over a meal. Ideally two. Take your time choosing and when ready CLOSE THE MENUs. Many Americans leave them open and when the waiters continue to walk by they immediately decide they are the victim of a xenophobic passive agression. No, the servers are respecting your time and space to decide. They will likely be with you within a minute once you close the menus.
    - Don’t expect the bill (check) to come unless you ask for it. This is again to respect your time and space. It is not bad service but good service.
    - Don’t interrupt a server when they are focused on another table, even if there is some going back and forth to deliver or clear items. Choose the moment to attract their attention and then make eye contact and raise you hand slightly. Don’t loudly call out, but use ‘ S’il vous plait’ (Not ‘Excusez-moi)
    - Ask the server’s opinion on something related to the menu or wine list. Not necessary a recommendation, but an explanation or a comparison between two options. This will usually engage them as the ‘expert’ and they will enjoy serving you more.
    - Smile.

    • @wsw70
      @wsw70 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Good points, but "I'll get" is fine ("je prendrai..." or "pour moi ça sera..." are typical wordings). With a thank you and a smile 😊

    • @lours6993
      @lours6993 Před 6 měsíci +2

      @@wsw70 It’s the difference between “I’ll take” Je prendrai and “I’ll get” J'obtiendrai. See?

    • @laughmasterk3552
      @laughmasterk3552 Před 4 měsíci

      Just thank you!🌺

    • @irenejohnston6802
      @irenejohnston6802 Před 4 měsíci +1

      Love the doing and getting remark. I'm old, 83. in UK would say 'I should like' Je voudrai. Really irritates, Can I get? Want to reply. 'I don't know, can you?'

    • @jrthiker9908
      @jrthiker9908 Před 3 měsíci +5

      @@irenejohnston6802 I agree, and as an American it's partly the way American English has developed. We have pretty much dropped the subjunctive and a lot of conditional tenses in everyday uses (would, could, should.) So polite forms of "Could I have/I would like" become "can I get a croissant with my coffee?", typical of the informal American style of communicating. Which many of us take as being polite because it is so informal and chatty...I'm treating you, the waiter or barista like my friend, which is a compliment in the US. When we use the conditional as in "I would like" it seems stilted and formal and frequently is saved for an imperative context when we don't like something. As in "I would like to go....now!" or "I could do that, but I refuse." I live in Italy and some of the same issues get confused in translation when Americans speak Italian.

  • @TheoWerewolf
    @TheoWerewolf Před rokem +129

    #4, On my first trip to Paris, I was feeling homesick and wanted pizza. I was staying at the St. Yllen and there was a Speed Rabbit Pizza place just across the street. My reading French is pretty good and I'm vegetarian (allergy) and I ordered what I thought was a vegetarian pizza on a two for one deal and only after about 10 minutes realised that there was lardon (fatty bacon) on it. I tried to explain the problem (my spoken French is... not so good, alas) and luckily one of the customers could speak English and French and explained. I made it clear that it was entirely my error and I was ok paying for the first order and a replacement - but to my surprise, they offered a free replacement. I said that that wasn't fair to them - it was MY mistake - and he replied "It's ok - Marcel and I will have it for dinner!" :)
    Genuinely awesome! Sadly, that location of the chain has permanently closed. :(

    • @mariev3797
      @mariev3797 Před 8 měsíci +10

      It’s all in the way you asked for your change : you admit your error, apologize and propose to be charged. They are understanding.
      What is not made clear in the video is that the customer sense is not the same in our two cultures. To get at the end the same thing, in France we put the forms, we must remain courteous, even with someone “at our service” like a waiter. The way Americans sometimes behave thoroughly “client is the king and is always right” in Paris, France and Europe is seen or can be felt as rude.

    • @christianbarnay2499
      @christianbarnay2499 Před 8 měsíci

      To add on what @@mariev3797 said waiters are not at your OWN PERSONAL service. They are at the service of all their clients equally. And as it is said in the video they have 2x or 3x the number of tables a US waiter usually has. So they will do their best to fulfill your special requests within reasonable limits. They won't degrade the quality of service to all others customers just for you.
      If you expect them to act like your personal slave you won't get a warm welcome. And if you lie or insult them you should be ready for retaliation in some form or another. And if you're particularly despicable and annoying to other customers you can be thrown out.
      But if you act the way a normal person is expected to in front of another normal person - aka polite, responsible, reasonable and understanding - you'll get everything you need and a wonderful experience.

    • @Ron_Robertson
      @Ron_Robertson Před 4 měsíci +4

      @@mariev3797 And it should be rude in the US to treat service staff as if they're peons. That's a strong indication that you're dealing with a bad person if they mistreat staff. And what you said is exactly what I experience, you can get the same results in France as you might think in the US by being polite and not acting entitled. I love living in France, and I find the French to be extraordinarily polite and kind. Including in Paris. But, I do speak French pretty well (albeit with a very strong accent), so I'm told that's why. I think just being open to what is available, and not having rigid expectations helps.

  • @MrDabaaz
    @MrDabaaz Před rokem +77

    Hi i was a waiter in a brasserie for 7 years, and you can definitly tip with the credit card. You have tell the waiter how much you want to add before the actual transaction is done on the machine. The extra will be added to our tips at the end of the day. Great videos merci !

    • @MrDabaaz
      @MrDabaaz Před rokem +9

      I would add that i would be very hard to make a good day with tips if it was only cash nowadays. Nobody carries cash anymore, and spreading the idea that tips are cash only lowers our income !

    • @Matthew.Pequegnat
      @Matthew.Pequegnat Před rokem +7

      @@LesFrenchiesTravel We have done this, but then had a waiter tell us they don't always get the tip when the management "forgets" to split it off. Others have told us they prefer cash for obvious other reasons... 1-3€ is average, 4-6€ if good service, 20€ or 10% if exceptional (and surprisingly exceptional happens all the time in France!).

    • @sarah-phillips
      @sarah-phillips Před rokem +2

      We had the same experience in Paris - we just asked what they preferred. I'm glad to know this was okay. All of a sudden I thought "oh no..."

    • @Nicol.G.
      @Nicol.G. Před 11 měsíci +2

      C’est exact .
      Mais certains serveurs occasionnels ne le savent pas ! Et donc demandent du cash. Demandez le responsable de salle si cela arrive…

    • @johnmc3862
      @johnmc3862 Před 11 měsíci +2

      ​@@MrDabaazPlenty of people carry cash, esp when going abroad. Another person that doesn't use cash thinks no one else uses it anymore!!!

  • @MrDjubinum
    @MrDjubinum Před 8 měsíci +16

    Hello ! I'm a waiter in Paris and what you're saying here is absolutely true. However, don't bother to tip 10% of the meal. It can be enormous depending on what you ordered. 2 to 5 euros is perfect. I'v helped many tourists to understand the menu (sometimes for a very long moment) and the simple gesture of the tip is appreciated. And you can add a tip by asking an extra when you pay by credit card ;)
    And YES, thank you to explain that: if you need a waiter, just call him. We try to do the best to prevent any of the customer's needs, but when we are full, it can be a bit tricky.

    • @Funkytrip73
      @Funkytrip73 Před 7 měsíci

      So if the bill is E37, we can just say 'make it E40', pay by credit card and that E3 will eventually be shared amongst the waiters? In the Netherlands 'rounding' the bill is a common practice. Sometimes you're lucky as 36 may round to 40, but 39 would also round to 40 and people are less inclined to do maths and ponder if they should give 41 or 42.
      Some waiters shoot them selves in the foot by this because the moment we say we want to pay by credit card they type in the bill amount before we even could round it up. And it's awkward to ask them to remove the number and type in the new number.

    • @Alex-mp1zb
      @Alex-mp1zb Před 7 měsíci +2

      @@Funkytrip73 No, the tip must be left on the table not when paying with a credit card.

  • @fryque
    @fryque Před 3 měsíci +2

    I will never be going to Paris. But I really like your videos. There are interesting.

  • @horseplop9
    @horseplop9 Před 11 měsíci +3

    I am addicted to the channel

  • @christophercamaguey3006
    @christophercamaguey3006 Před 3 měsíci +5

    You both are awesome. You both speak in such a soothing and relaxing way, I could listen to you two all day. My partner and I are visiting France this week from Miami. Your videos have been very helpful. Thank you for everything!

    • @LesFrenchiesTravel
      @LesFrenchiesTravel  Před 3 měsíci +2

      If you're still here next Thursday, join our meet-up!

    • @christophercamaguey3006
      @christophercamaguey3006 Před 3 měsíci

      @@LesFrenchiesTravel oh man, that would’ve been awesome, but we are leaving on Monday. Next time we come to Paris, we will let you know in advance. Thank you!

  • @renee2712
    @renee2712 Před rokem +21

    I really love and appreciate the reverence and care the French take with food and the enjoyment of eating. ❤

  • @myselection9243
    @myselection9243 Před rokem +25

    I was born next to France, Belgium, known Paris well, lived in the US and known the ‘nuance’ differences between both dining cultures. This video explains it all, short and to the point.

  • @krisanderson9823
    @krisanderson9823 Před rokem +29

    Thank you for this important video. As an American drilled in my manners, they are not always correct when traveling. Taking the time to research customs, etc. is a quintessential part of travel preparation, in my humble opinion. Immersing myself in the culture is why I travel.

    • @oseasviewer7108
      @oseasviewer7108 Před 8 měsíci

      Apropos of immersing oneself in the culture - the French take great pride in table manners and how they use their flatware (cutlery/silver) at table from the humble Bistro to the a la carte menu of the high end restaurant - decorum and elegant application are key elements in how one consumes any dish, a true compliment to fellow diners and the kitchen team who prepared it.
      I felt compelled to post a comment to the hosts of this video drawing attention to the importance of table manners be it in a formal or informal setting particularly in France..

  • @jonijohnson6563
    @jonijohnson6563 Před rokem +19

    Antoine and Colleen: We are still in Paris and found a jewel today. La Forge Restaurant in Les Goublins neighborhood. 14 Rue Pascal. I went for the cassoulet, and all the menu we tasted was fabulous! The warm goat cheese salad was to die for also. Wonderful couple that runs the restaurant and we highly recommend!! Joni & Steve Johnson

    • @johnwilson8309
      @johnwilson8309 Před 9 měsíci

      Will have to remember this for my next trip; Inlove cassoulet.

  • @brianhynds6201
    @brianhynds6201 Před rokem +47

    I ordered whelks as a starter. I'd never tried them before but after eating one or two I just could eat the rest. The waitress was very kind and brought me another starter. I was not charged for the whelks which I thought was very gracious. I got the impression that the waitress thought it was more important for me to enjoy what I was eating rather than dwell on me wasting a portion of their food. That's why I keep going back to France.

    • @brianhynds6201
      @brianhynds6201 Před rokem +2

      @@catherinemori4986 I wanted to try them, especially as they came with a garlic dip! However, I'll avoid doing that in future and will try to stick to what I know as I did feel a bit bad about sending them back. But the young waitress was really kind;)

    • @brianhynds6201
      @brianhynds6201 Před rokem

      @@LesFrenchiesTravel Thank you so much for your videos. They really help smooth the way for us tourists!

    • @baerlauchstal
      @baerlauchstal Před rokem +4

      Yeah, "bulots" were one of my very very few bad food experiences in France. Not disgusting as such, but not appetising at all, for my money. (But I ate them because I'd ordered them!)

    • @corgiowner436
      @corgiowner436 Před 8 měsíci +1

      Definitely an acquired taste. The French also love Rouget -red mullet-which is a very bony, fishy tasting dish. I only ordered that once.

    • @christianbarnay2499
      @christianbarnay2499 Před 8 měsíci +2

      @@brianhynds6201Please don't refrain yourself from tasting new things. The key is when in doubt just ask. If you tell the waiter upfront that you are not sure, they will make their best to describe the taste, maybe go to the kitchen and bring you back a sample to help you decide, or any other solution they can come up with to help you to their best.
      But we're also living a dangerous life. Taking risks is part of the thrill. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, every time you learn and improve.

  • @smimtiaz4556
    @smimtiaz4556 Před 9 měsíci +1

    France is more beautiful & delicious than dream

  • @marthawilson4775
    @marthawilson4775 Před rokem +6

    Thanks very much for this. May I add something? I just spent two months in Paris (March and April 2023) and, because I rarely carry cash with me now, I made it a habit to ask if I could add the tip to my total. The servers did not have a problem with that. So if my meal with a friend were €40, I would ask to add €5 - and they gave me the receipt for €45 and we were done! When I realized I could do this for every meal, I asked every time. I got a nice big smile and “thank you,” because they were happy I was leaving a tip, and that was that!

  • @thetragicyouth
    @thetragicyouth Před rokem +15

    Bravo Colleen and Antoine, your content totally hits the sweet spot where information and entertainment meet! 👏👏👏

  • @algin6544
    @algin6544 Před 9 měsíci +2

    Vous êtes sympa tous les deux, je vous regarde souvent. Bonne vidéo pour prévenir, les étrangers sur ce que l'on peut ou ne pas faire en France. Very important !!!

  • @elliesmith4553
    @elliesmith4553 Před rokem +2

    I love that you clearly enjoy food. The delight on your faces when each meal arrives!

  • @AnneMB955
    @AnneMB955 Před rokem +2

    Just got back from France after having a wonderful time. All your pointers are so logical. Love watching all that lovely food in your vid. My favourite cuisine. 🇦🇺🇫🇷

  • @gertlettorp3137
    @gertlettorp3137 Před rokem +4

    Hi Frenchies. I am danish and I love Paris/France. Haven’t been to Paris for years, so your vlogs help compensating a lot👍. Thanks and keep ‘em coming.

  • @gabrielleparis3532
    @gabrielleparis3532 Před rokem +2

    Love les Frenchies❤ so grateful to you Colleen and Antoine for helping navigate and enjoy Paris! Your videos are so charming so much fun to watch! It brings more ooh la la into my life, merci🌹

  • @gerrypower9433
    @gerrypower9433 Před rokem +35

    A decade ago I was having dinner with a Parisian friend in a quiet bistro. Nearby there was an American woman very painfully trying trying to communicate with the waiter using a pocket dictionary. The waiter noticed that my friend and I were switching between English and French, and asked for our help. It seems the American woman was asking for a "bag of dogs" which puzzled the waiter. My Parisian friend explained the concept of a doggie bag to take home leftovers. The waiter replied "Really? Why would she want to do that?"

    • @sylviaspijkers4349
      @sylviaspijkers4349 Před rokem +7

      It s so stupid to ask for a doggiebag

    • @elipotter369
      @elipotter369 Před rokem +5

      Haha, that is so hilarious!
      It would perhaps be helpful if travellers tried a different way to explain the concept. Often English speakers use idiom and seem clueless about how to switch to plain direct language instead.

    • @Elwene2fr
      @Elwene2fr Před rokem +20

      The concept and the word "doggiebag" are very new in France.
      And it's really not common to ask for one because usually meals are prepared for one regular serving (not too little, not too much).
      In North American, portions tend to be much bigger and hard to finish in one meal.

    • @jamesmcinnis208
      @jamesmcinnis208 Před rokem

      ​@sylviaspijkers4349 Stupider still to not understand that someone wanted what they paid for.

    • @thomasdupont1905
      @thomasdupont1905 Před rokem +3

      That was a decade ago. Now it is very much an ingrained practice and people will ask for a doggie bag (litteraly, "je peux avoir un doggiebag s'il-vous-plaît" ?

  • @mrn13
    @mrn13 Před rokem +20

    Great vid! I might add, as a local, the payment process: there is a "logic" to know, when just going to the counter and pay there instead of waiting for the waiter. For lunch, most people do that, since the waiters are as you say, very busy. Also, I never tip! But, when for example in the US, I am a great tipper! Eating with your hands-- actually both the posh and the no posh, tend to pick up some frittes with their hands and the way we clean the plate with the bread, can actually be considered "to much" for outsiders...

    • @8xtl8
      @8xtl8 Před rokem +4

      I never tip either unless the service is outstanding. Tipping is definitely not that common in France :)

    • @marionarda2790
      @marionarda2790 Před rokem +8

      ​@@LesFrenchiesTravel no please do not bring tipping culture to France

    • @michaelwoodbodley8099
      @michaelwoodbodley8099 Před rokem +1

      I’m pleased you provided correction on these points.

    • @squiddybilly
      @squiddybilly Před rokem

      ​@@marionarda2790 I don't think there is any risk of introducing a 'tipping culture' outside the US, but I think it's a great way to show your appreciation if your waitstaff gives you extra service.
      When I travelled around France, I really appreciated the extra time that staff spent explaining the menu to me. Having been a server in my own (non-tipping) country, I appreciated the tips that that I was given for doing extra things.

    • @fredfroutch1554
      @fredfroutch1554 Před 8 měsíci

      You do What you want but you should tip, at least a bit, 2 or 3€, if staff is friendly of course
      I own a restaurant and I’m always sad for the team when a table doesn’t tips
      When I go to thé restaurant I always give 5, 10 or 20, dépends of the amount

  • @Desi_Des
    @Desi_Des Před 3 dny

    Etiquette is so important in Paris. A must!

  • @feliceadem
    @feliceadem Před rokem +31

    Thank you for this video, so helpful when in France. I was just there and was very conscious of remembering to put my hands on the table in between courses as coming from Anglo culture I was always taught to do the opposite and told by my parents it was rude to rest your elbows on the table so naturally will put them on my lap.
    Your channel and Paris travel guide was so helpful in my recent travels and made such a difference this time in my trip to France knowing where to go and how to engage with the locals. 👏 🇫🇷

    • @alisonfraser8231
      @alisonfraser8231 Před rokem +13

      There is a difference between your hands or your elbows on the table.

    • @fds1805
      @fds1805 Před rokem +6

      I am European and for the life of me I have no idea what I do with my hands at a restaurant. We must not exaggerate. If you eat at a 5 stars restaurant you dress up and you keep your hands on the table. If you eat at the restaurant down the street you enjoy yourself and nobody will check your hands.

    • @squiddybilly
      @squiddybilly Před rokem

      ​@@alisonfraser8231 Agreed.

    • @squiddybilly
      @squiddybilly Před rokem +2

      ​@@fds1805 if I'm at a pub or cafe with friends, I don't worry about where my elbows are, but if I'm somewhere less casual or with people I don't know well, I'll keep my elbows off the table. I don't have to think about it, it comes naturally. It's just like how you change the way you talk when talking to different people.
      I'm in New Zealand BTW.

    • @arribaficationwineho32
      @arribaficationwineho32 Před 9 měsíci

      Felice…….I was raised the same, elbows, arms, hands off the table

  • @nyasak721
    @nyasak721 Před rokem +1

    My goodness! I have to see this again and takes notes! There are so many things to consider and be considerate of. Tipping, for me, is a given. It is always about gratitude for the service. In preparation for my upcoming trip I read all the menus, in French, from various restaurants. I print them out and use them to study. I started with the printable you provided from the video on how to order in a French restaurant. I now know many words and meals and practice saying them as well. I am a guest in any country I travel to. I never forget that. This video is a constant watch for me. Great work. Thank you!

    • @elipotter369
      @elipotter369 Před rokem

      You sound delightfully well prepared - i feel encouraged to read menus now!
      And you are so on the ball practising saying it - correct pronunciation is so important, or people can't decipher what's being said.

  • @lesleykenwood2715
    @lesleykenwood2715 Před rokem +4

    I found this vlog exceedingly helpful for my trip next spring. Although a lot of the places I chose are from your previous videos, including bakeries, outdoor markets, La Jacobine for french onion soup, Creperie Francais, La Louchebem for profiteroles, my absolute favorite dessert. I'm not a fancy restaurant eater, more budget and markets.

  • @EVA-LWY
    @EVA-LWY Před rokem +1

    thanks. Perfect timing, hubby and I are flying out from DC to Paris later today and we will be there tomorrow morning. We can use some of your “tips” while we are there. Thanks again.

  • @nancydonoghue4319
    @nancydonoghue4319 Před 10 měsíci

    Thanks much for sharing this! Really informative!

  • @roslynline5677
    @roslynline5677 Před rokem

    As always, great information! Thank you!

  • @VanillaCat1977
    @VanillaCat1977 Před rokem +2

    Great work! This video is very insightful and presented in a pleasant way. Dining in Paris seems like a cultural experience as well as a meal.

  • @sylviamatthee8172
    @sylviamatthee8172 Před rokem

    As always, wonderfully useful. Thank you so much.

  • @bbpete8349
    @bbpete8349 Před rokem +1

    Wow! Things that are good to know! And some of which I would not have even thought of. Thank you!

  • @carolhopps5871
    @carolhopps5871 Před rokem

    Love your videos!!! Thank you for doing them. Paris is on my bucket list!!!

  • @jasonibiza7993
    @jasonibiza7993 Před rokem +1

    Yeah another enjoyable and helpful video! 💙💙💙

  • @annabeltheduchessofdessert7700

    Great video and super informative! Thank you!

  • @jenniferdeshon389
    @jenniferdeshon389 Před měsícem

    That was very helpful. Thank you!

  • @powerplantop
    @powerplantop Před 11 měsíci

    Thank you for the informative but not overly dramatic video.

  • @LMays-cu2hp
    @LMays-cu2hp Před rokem +1

    Thank you so much for sharing being there in Paris.

  • @PupusaHotDog
    @PupusaHotDog Před 9 měsíci

    Thank you for these videos! They’re a life saver. Would love to see a video about shopping in Paris! How to ask for the price of something, ask whether there’s a changing room etc

  • @jacqueline8559
    @jacqueline8559 Před rokem +6

    French Law since 1985 states that a Customer is not required to Tip after a meal. The 15%Service Charge is added to the Bill. This is because the Staff now have a Living Wage so can no longer, legally, expect to increase their wages through Tipping. They earn the same as the woman working at a Le Clerc Till, and she cannot rely on Tips.....
    Just thought I'd point it out as Law.
    That said, its entirely up to the Individual, of course. ( I live in Southern Feance and have never seen a French person tip whilst I was with them)
    Loved this Video , as always. Thank you both

    • @uyen-phuongnguyen8757
      @uyen-phuongnguyen8757 Před rokem +4

      Canadian here. I find the tipping culture in North America is getting outrageous. I hope that the Americans do not export their tipping culture to France where service is included and tipping not required ( but appreciated of course who would not like some extra $ ). But at least you are not expected to pay anything more that the price on the menu ( tax and service included ).

    • @DianeM-gk6nq
      @DianeM-gk6nq Před rokem +1

      @@uyen-phuongnguyen8757 Just back from the US and was astounded to see in some places a 3% 'medicare(?)' charge on top of the required gratuity. In effect, paying the employers health insurance obligations!! Seriously.

  • @MrZumbrota
    @MrZumbrota Před 9 měsíci

    Another great video. Very helpful and very straighforward

  • @inesgago4318
    @inesgago4318 Před 8 měsíci

    Your channel is so helpful! Thank you so much for this 😊

  • @deelighted
    @deelighted Před 10 měsíci

    I stumbled upon your channel today, and now i feel like i've watched all of your videos! Merci for this content!

  • @a.phillips6892
    @a.phillips6892 Před rokem

    Excellent advice as usual! Thank you!

  • @chrisb7142
    @chrisb7142 Před rokem +1

    I lived in Montpellier and Paris in the 80's and loved eating out (although it was rare being a starving student), so I was only half listening to the etiquette rules...I was mostly loving watching the different meals! Wow! Some of those meals looked absolutely delicious and brought me way back! Fond memories.

  • @brendaw.7597
    @brendaw.7597 Před rokem

    Great advice and to the point, thank you!

  • @serenaliam2733
    @serenaliam2733 Před rokem

    Thank you for another informative video ❤

  • @geoffreypayne6867
    @geoffreypayne6867 Před rokem

    Most useful...will certainly reference this video before my next trip..Merci

  • @garyhampton3739
    @garyhampton3739 Před rokem +8

    Excellent advice as always. Most of these rules are really about having consideration, courtesy, and class. Been going to Paris for years and didn't realise the the napkins on the outside tables rule, but always thought it's pretty inconsiderate to just have a coffee when it's the evening hours for dinner. One thing I did learn recently though - if you have a couple drinks and l'addition is under 10 Euros, a lot of cafe's won't except payment by card - cash only.

  • @RantingGreekGamer
    @RantingGreekGamer Před rokem +5

    *You two are pure gems for providing us with this information. Thank you and keep up the good work!* 😊

  • @carolyntemplin488
    @carolyntemplin488 Před 8 měsíci

    I just adore your videos! I want to go to France, it has been years since I have been… the food is to die for!

  • @Catherine.B.
    @Catherine.B. Před rokem

    Amazing video as always 💛

  • @lindafrazier8092
    @lindafrazier8092 Před rokem

    ❤ so helpful and informative merci👏💕

  • @2BeLikeChrist
    @2BeLikeChrist Před 9 měsíci

    This was super helpful. Thank you.

  • @lizkeith1356
    @lizkeith1356 Před rokem +2

    France is the best. thanks for the video

  • @Mexatlan
    @Mexatlan Před rokem

    Thanks for the excellent tips, I didn't know about them

  • @mikiewifnoe360
    @mikiewifnoe360 Před rokem

    Excellently presented, thanks.😃

  • @philexile0
    @philexile0 Před 11 měsíci

    I will be in Paris in August for the first time in many years, and found this video most helpful! Thank you!

  • @robertgerber6746
    @robertgerber6746 Před rokem

    You both are amazing and we can’t wait to come back to Paris! 2024 🎉❤
    Merci!

  • @loesjevervloet3769
    @loesjevervloet3769 Před rokem

    Loved all the food that was brought to you!

  • @mariadk1025
    @mariadk1025 Před rokem +1

    Loved the tip about tables to drink only.

  • @aliciaandsassatravels

    Thanks for this immensely useful information!

  • @9MPH
    @9MPH Před rokem

    Merci beaucoup! Your videos are sage and hold me over until the next time I can visit France. Allez, on y va!

  • @KolorfulDreamsArtKda
    @KolorfulDreamsArtKda Před 10 měsíci +3

    I'm not French but I've lived my whole adult life in France and that's absolutely right, that's how we like it here: if I need you I'll call you. It feels so weird to have the waiter coming to my table all the time, which happens so often when I'm in the States.

  • @Sfaknak
    @Sfaknak Před 10 měsíci +1

    Great vid and information.
    The tips are general for at least southern Europe. I was taught from an early age to sit and eat, never eat whilst walking.

  • @anapalmaprince2833
    @anapalmaprince2833 Před rokem

    Love all of your videos ❤ wonderful information, practical and very useful. Merci ❤❤❤

  • @southernsunshine1149
    @southernsunshine1149 Před 2 měsíci

    Looks absolutely amazing. Visiting Paris next month for the first time & I can’t wait!

  • @PistachioDean
    @PistachioDean Před rokem

    Very helpful!! Merci! ☺️

  • @sithrage
    @sithrage Před rokem

    Great channel! Looking forward to my first trip to Paris (and Europe!) this summer with my family.

  • @BigNightFan
    @BigNightFan Před rokem

    Great info, as usual!

  • @tatjanakecman7236
    @tatjanakecman7236 Před 11 měsíci +1

    You are true lovers of Paris, which I love about your videos. You spend time there with an appreciation for French culture. You even speak the language. Many people go abroad and come back complaining expecting people from other cultures to accommodate them and not vice versa. That's called arrogance. You go there with curiosity and appreciation.

  • @retalyndawati2867
    @retalyndawati2867 Před rokem

    Thank You 🙏 and Much Love..❤❤❤❤

  • @martian9999
    @martian9999 Před 8 měsíci +6

    I spend a few days in Paris twice per year... and I still learned a lot from this video! Thank you.
    BTW, I find Parisian waitors generally very helpful and friendly. It was that way back in the day -- just check out the movie "Garcon" with Yves Montand -- and it's that way now. But note that many restaurants have a shortage of personnel nowadays, and times are getting quite stressful for all kinds of restaurant staff. In early September near Denfert Rocherau, I even saw an over-worked waitress turn chairs upside down to prevent more patrons from coming to a full place. That's just how it is.

  • @rosinasfoodmagic
    @rosinasfoodmagic Před rokem +7

    Anotine and Colleen, thank you so much for this useful video! You really provide us with so much valuable content, it's incredible. My husband and I are going to Paris in 3 weeks and we are huge foodies! It's great to know that we can share meals too, because we would like to visit a number of places in the 5 days we'll be there. Also, it's normal to be able to grab a seat at most restaurants in the Netherlands, so it's good to know that this is considered rude in Paris. And I'll definitely be keeping my hands on the table! By the way, would sharing meals be allowed at Chez Rene, Chez Germain and Le Jacobine? I thought since you've been there, you may already know or be able to suss it out. Thank you!

  • @Lavolanges
    @Lavolanges Před rokem

    I’m drooling just looking at your plates!

  • @anniebowen1
    @anniebowen1 Před rokem

    Brilliant.
    (Love the addition of the film clips.)

  • @neilsbaker9790
    @neilsbaker9790 Před 10 měsíci

    Great video thoroughly enjoyed it and some of those meals looked tres bien 👍 😊

  • @lavieenfrance5175
    @lavieenfrance5175 Před rokem

    another good video! keep it up! merci❤🇨🇵

  • @juliahonkanen9295
    @juliahonkanen9295 Před 8 měsíci

    At first, sorry for my bad english and I wanna say thank you for yours videos. Im estonian and living in Finland. We are travel to Paris for a first time and i get a lot important informarion from your videos.

  • @islandbreeze2102
    @islandbreeze2102 Před 5 měsíci

    Great video. Thank you for explaining those nuances to us Americans.

  • @regtowers4914
    @regtowers4914 Před 9 měsíci +1

    Great tips for dining like the locals ❤

  • @denisvermeirre1024
    @denisvermeirre1024 Před rokem +3

    What did I tell the kids about eating standing up? "Assieds-toi. Le chien mange debout."

  • @KitsyHiggins
    @KitsyHiggins Před 7 měsíci

    Good thing I watched this! Did a few of these the last time I was there. Will do better next time!

  • @corinardh8635
    @corinardh8635 Před rokem

    Thank you for sharing.

  • @jeffc9673
    @jeffc9673 Před rokem

    French food looks so delicious! Catching a jet on Saturday.

  • @sa21g22g23
    @sa21g22g23 Před rokem

    Merci beaucoup pour cette nouvelle e très jolie themè du debut de dimanche

  • @traceysprigings8334
    @traceysprigings8334 Před 10 měsíci

    Thank you, you're stars, appreciate all of your advice and videos. X :)

  • @elsaacevedo7053
    @elsaacevedo7053 Před rokem +1

    Excellent video! 🤗

  • @yvesgonin1958
    @yvesgonin1958 Před rokem

    great tips as usual

  • @saranyabiswas2057
    @saranyabiswas2057 Před 9 měsíci

    Thanks for the tips

  • @SoItGoesCAL34
    @SoItGoesCAL34 Před rokem

    We enjoy your videos. Thanks

  • @andybarth5928
    @andybarth5928 Před rokem +1

    THX for the information - tipping is the most divers subject which confuses me most.... I heared many different things - but about10% seems the right way - Thanks

  • @jackwalker9492
    @jackwalker9492 Před rokem

    Thank you for the video people!

    • @jackwalker9492
      @jackwalker9492 Před rokem

      @@LesFrenchiesTravel FYI, I grew up in Vermont and half of my town were Quebecois. I had pretty good French when I was young but have forgotten most of it. I get me good pension next year and will visit France. I currently live in Colombia and if you guys ever visit here, message me and I will help you. Thank you for your help and I wish you a very good day. You seem like very nice people. Also, sorry, but if I order French Fries, I am using my hands LOL. Retired Army Infantry.

  • @markstafford6357
    @markstafford6357 Před rokem

    Great Video !!!

  • @marisoll1870
    @marisoll1870 Před rokem

    Great tips

  • @tharg330
    @tharg330 Před rokem

    I enjoy your videos. I have a maison secondaire in Antibes and still enjoy hearing your explanations.

  • @merc340sr
    @merc340sr Před rokem

    Great video!