Italian Dining Etiquette and Manners: Do’s and Don’ts at the Table

Dining in a reputable Italian restaurant in Ottawa isn’t just savoring delicious cuisine; it’s a chance to dive into a rich Italian culinary and cultural experience. To fully embrace the dining experience, you should know and practice proper etiquette.

If you plan to visit Giovanni Restaurant soon, a little preparation can go a long way. If you know things to do and things to avoid, you can make the most of your Italian dining experience. This blog shares a short etiquette guide to eating in Italian restaurants on Preston Street and everything you need to know before setting out.

The Importance of Etiquette in Fine Dining

Understanding proper etiquette is key to fully appreciating the importance of upscale dining. It’s not just about knowing which fork to use or how to fold your napkin; it’s about embracing a culture of sophistication that enhances the experience for both you and those around you.

Think of fine dining etiquette as a language, an unspoken set of rules that allow you to navigate the evening with confidence. From the moment you set your foot at the restaurant until you leave, every aspect of the experience follows a thoughtful rhythm. Proper etiquette means engaging with the wait staff respectfully, understanding the flow of service, reading the menu and wine list with ease, and participating in polite, engaging conversation. By mastering these elements, you ensure the focus remains on the exceptional cuisine and the shared experience, rather than any potential missteps.

Beyond table manners, fine dining etiquette is a way to show appreciation for the artistry behind each meticulously crafted dish and the seamless service that brings it to life. When guests honor these traditions, they contribute to an atmosphere of refinement, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Ultimately, understanding and respecting fine dining etiquette allows you to fully immerse yourself in the luxury and exclusivity that these establishments so carefully curate.

Reserve a Table

Most Italian restaurants in Preston Street and beyond prefer the guests making a reservation instead of walk in. this is especially true if you want to eat in popular spots, such the famous Giovanni’s Restaurant in Preston Street.  Knowing your preferred dining time allows you to make a reservation ahead or even book online. While we understand delays can happen, arriving on time ensures you don’t miss a moment of the exceptional experience we strive to provide.

Set aside a few hours.

Whether you enjoy a private dinner with your loved one, a family dinner or hosting a private party, the first thing you should remember about dining at Italian restaurants in Preston is the adventure to be savored.  Authentic Italian cuisine unfolds at a leisurely pace, allowing you to enjoy each course as it arrives, appreciating every flavor and detail.

Italian culture embraces the joy of shared meals, so bring along friends and family to make it a truly festive occasion. That said, be mindful when booking your reservation, as it allows you to enjoy the whole experience. Choose a time that allows you to relax and enjoy the whole experience without feeling hurried. With multiple courses to indulge in, giving yourself the time to truly appreciate each one makes all the difference. 

Follow Proper Table Manners

Table manners are an important aspect of showing respect to Italian culinary traditions. Italian dining customs have specific rules that differ from typical dining in Ottawa. Some of these customs include:

Proper handling of Utensils

How you handle utensils and cutlery speaks volumes about your dining etiquette and familiarity with Italian customs. It’s a common practice in Italy to hold the fork in the right hand and the knife in the left without switching hands throughout the meal.

This might feel different if you are used to American styles, where it's common to switch utensils between cutting and eating. Embracing this Italian custom is a simple way to show respect for local traditions.

Passing food to the left

A truly Italian dining experience is all about sharing. Bread with seasoned olive oil and various appetizers are meant to be enjoyed together, bringing everyone at the table into the experience.

Italian dining culture celebrates communal, family-style eating. When shared dishes arrive, they’re passed around the table, typically moving to the left so everyone can take a portion. When a dish comes your way, take your share and pass it along to keep the meal flowing smoothly. 

Don’t eat with elbows on the table.

When it comes to fine dining in Ottawa, keeping your elbows off the table is a sign of respect for both etiquette and your dining companions. Resting your elbows on the table may be a sign of disrespect in a formal setting. Maintaining good posture while eating demonstrates good manners and enhances the overall dining experience. 

That said, context matters. In a more relaxed setting, such as a casual café or friendly gathering, leaning in with your elbows on the table might be perfectly acceptable. The key is to read the room and adjust accordingly.

Don’t eat your pasta with a spoon

This may be one of the most debatable topics in all of Italy. When the waiter serves you a mouthwatering plate of Lasagna alla Bolognese, it can be tempting to grab a spoon and start twilling, but Italians never do that.

You’ve probably seen movies where someone expertly balances a spoon in their non-dominant hand while twirling pasta against it with a fork. While it may seem like a sophisticated technique, it’s not how Italians eat pasta. Instead, they rely solely on a fork. The only time you’ll need a spoon is if you’re scooping up extra sauce, but stick to tradition when it comes to eating.

Don’t forget to tip

Once you have finished savoring your dish at Giovanni’s, don’t forget to tip as a token of appreciation before moving out. While the general rule is to tip at least 15% of your pre-tax total, feel free to leave more if you had an especially wonderful experience. A little generosity goes a long way in showing gratitude for great service.

Enjoy Italian cuisine at Giovanni’s

Whether just visiting Ottawa or embracing Italian culinary heritage, immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant food scene is a must. And what better way to do that than indulging in an authentic fine-dining Italian experience?

At Giovanni’s Restaurant, we’re proud to be among the city’s most esteemed Italian restaurants in Preston. Now that you’re familiar with a few key dining tips, why not put them to use? Browse our extensive menu online, and if you have any questions, feel free to reach out—we’d love to welcome you!