The Bit Of Parisian Dining Etiquette Often Overlooked By Tourists

France is famous for its cuisine, from fine dining favorites like escargot to more everyday staples like baguettes and French onion soup. There are Michelin-starred establishments and even world-renowned chef schools all over the country. However, what you order and where it is from are not the only things to think about at a French restaurant. France has a few unspoken food rules tourists should know when dining out.

In the United States, waitstaff at restaurants usually give you the bill once they see that you've nearly finished your meal or have at least been sitting at your table for a considerable amount of time. While they might say something like, "No rush," or, "Whenever you're ready," when they give you the bill. Americans still tend to pay and leave shortly after. But in France, you won't receive this hint to wrap it up. Instead, you have to actually ask for the bill if you're done with your meal. Some customers might find this out of their comfort zone, but simply stating, "L'addition, s'il vous plait" to your waiter will get you your bill quickly and then you can head out for more sightseeing.

The reason why asking for the bill has become a social etiquette norm in France is because sitting down for a relaxing meal is practically a sacred art for the French. They don't like to rush it. Instead, restaurant-goers should savor the flavors and enjoy their meals –– taking the time to converse with others at the table. This is even true during lunch breaks from work. In fact, eating lunch at your desk is banned in France. Longer lunch breaks and longer meal times, in general, are embedded into France's culinary culture just as much as the country's beautiful cafés that line the chic cobblestone streets. 

Eating slowly does not just help you pay more attention to your food and drink. It is also a healthy way to eat. When you eat slower, you'll realize when you are full more easily because your brain has more time to catch up with your stomach's signals. Therefore, you are less likely to overdo it when you slow down. More chewing also means less work for your stomach, reducing possible digestion issues. Perhaps it's best to do as the French do: Savor the moment and the food when you are eating, even if you're not in France.