As children, we are all taught by our mothers to not put our elbows on the table and to chew with our mouths closed. But did she ever teach you how to hold a wine glass properly or which fork to use first?(she doesnt tell us this) Unless you are the offspring of Julia Child, probably not. Next time you are at a restaurant, impress your fellow eating companions with your new and improved knowledge of dining etiquette.

Do â?¦

Make placing the napkin on your lap the first thing you do after getting seated. If the utensils are rolled inside of it, gently take them out, place them on the table, and lay the napkin across your lap. This applies to both men and women.

Hold your wine glass by the stem. Cupping your fingers over the bottom of your glass obstructs the view of your wine and is considered quite tacky.

Tip. The coat check, valet (when you leave) and host if they did something extra special. One or two rolled up dollars in the palm of your hand will suffice.

Make reservations. Especially if you know you will be dining there well in advance. Do not assume they will have a table.

Get dessert. Desserts these days are small. If you share one, your waistline will not be at stake.

Dont â?¦

Order a Miller Light with your meal unless you are dining at BW3s. The classy approach is to ask your server what kind of wine would be best compliment your entrée. Even if you do not like wine, you most likely will after you drink it with your food.

Leave anything less than a 15 percent tip. A good way to calculate the appropriate amount is to take the tax multiplied by three. Then add another dollar or two.

Sneer if bar seating is all the restaurant has available. Sitting at the bar is becoming a huge trend in dining out and your food tends to come faster.

Use your fake ID at dinner. Save it for the bars “ not a great glass of wine.

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