Dining times and table manners across Europe

When people actually eat

Meal times vary more across Europe than many travellers expect. In Spain, dinner often starts at nine or later, and restaurants that are empty at seven fill up close to ten. Portugal and much of southern Europe also lean towards a substantial lunch and a relatively late dinner. In central and northern Europe, including Austria, Czechia and Ireland, evening meals tend to be earlier.

If you arrive at a restaurant at a time locals consider odd, you may find the kitchen closed between services or a dining room full of other visitors. Adjusting to local rhythms usually means better food and more atmosphere.

Ordering and paying

In much of Europe, waiters will not bring the bill until you ask for it, as rushing guests is considered rude. Lingering over coffee is normal, and a request for the bill is a simple phrase worth learning in each language.

In some countries, bread, olives or small starters may be brought to the table without being ordered, and these can appear on the bill. If you do not want them, it is fine to politely send them back.

Lunchtime set menus, offered in many southern European countries, are often excellent value and a good way to try local dishes.

Small customs that make a difference

Greeting staff when you enter a shop, cafe or restaurant is expected in many places, especially in France and southern Europe. A simple hello and goodbye in the local language goes a long way. Waiting to be seated rather than choosing a table yourself is the norm in many restaurants, though bars and casual cafes are more relaxed.

Coffee has its own culture almost everywhere. In parts of southern Europe, a quick espresso at the counter is cheaper than sitting at a table, and milky coffees are traditionally a morning drink.

Sharing, toasting and finishing up

Sharing plates is common in Spain, Greece and Portugal, where tapas, meze and petiscos are made for the middle of the table. Elsewhere, ordering individual dishes is more usual. Toasting customs vary too; making eye contact when you clink glasses is considered polite in several countries.

When in doubt, watch what the locals around you are doing and follow their lead. Most people are delighted when visitors make an effort and very forgiving of small mistakes.

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