Fine Dining Etiquette: Tips for the Perfect Night Out

A fine dining experience is more than just exquisite food—it’s an immersive journey that includes ambiance, service, and etiquette. Whether you’re visiting a Michelin-starred restaurant or enjoying a multi-course tasting menu at a local fine dining establishment, understanding the customs of upscale dining can enhance your experience and leave a lasting impression. Here’s how to navigate a high-end meal with confidence, plus a few ways to save with cashback apps like Fluz and Rakuten.

1. Dress the Part
   Most fine dining restaurants enforce a dress code, typically ranging from business casual to formal attire. When in doubt, opt for a tailored look—blazers, dresses, closed-toe shoes, and minimal accessories. Avoid jeans, sneakers, and loud prints unless the restaurant specifically states it welcomes a more relaxed style. Always check the restaurant’s website or confirmation email for dress code policies.
2. Master the Art of the Tasting Menu
   Tasting menus are common in fine dining, offering a chef-curated progression of dishes. Courses are often small but intentional, building in flavor and complexity. To enjoy:

• Eat each dish slowly, savoring the components and presentation.

• Ask questions if ingredients or techniques are unfamiliar—staff are usually trained to educate.

• Avoid over-seasoning your food unless it’s necessary; trust the chef’s palate.

Restaurants listed on the Michelin Guide often have seasonal tasting menus, which are ideal for first-time diners looking for the full experience.

3. Understand Wine Service
   If you order a bottle or wine pairing:

• The sommelier will present the bottle for you to confirm the selection.

• You’ll receive a small pour to taste—check for flaws (like cork taint), not personal preference.

• Swirl gently, sniff, and sip. If it’s acceptable, nod to continue pouring.

If you’re unsure what to order, don’t hesitate to ask for a recommendation based on your meal or budget. Sommeliers are trained to make wine approachable, not intimidating.

4. Respect the Service Flow
   Fine dining service is choreographed. Here are a few key points:

• Wait for everyone to be served before eating.

• Place your napkin on your lap as soon as you’re seated. If you leave the table, place it on your chair—not the table.

• Signal you’re finished by resting your fork and knife parallel across your plate.

• Be discreet with phones—ideally off the table or on silent.

5. Tipping Etiquette
   In the U.S., tipping 18–20% is standard for fine dining. For exceptional service, 22–25% is common. If gratuity is included, it will be noted on your bill. In many European or Asian countries, service charges may be built in or tipping may not be expected—research ahead based on location.
6. How to Save on a Luxury Night Out

Upscale dining doesn’t always mean overspending. Here’s how savvy diners save:

• Use Rakuten when making online reservations through platforms like OpenTable or Resy if partnered merchants are offering cashback.

• Book with Fluz gift cards when available for upscale restaurant groups or experiential platforms. For example, if dining at a place like Eataly’s fine dining outposts, you can get cashback at Eataly with Fluz.

• Check Ibotta for offers on pre-dinner items like wine or flowers when hosting or gifting before the meal.

Not yet a Fluz user? Download the app and earn cashback when treating yourself to refined experiences.

7. Final Touches

A fine dining experience is as much about respect and enjoyment as it is about luxury. Show appreciation to staff, be present during the meal, and approach each course with curiosity. When etiquette becomes second nature, the experience becomes even more rewarding.