Dining out is a delightful way to end the week, whether you’re enjoying a casual Friday night dinner or indulging in Gordon Ramsay’s renowned roast on a Sunday. The thrill of having someone prepare your meal can be quite exhilarating.
Despite the enjoyment of dining out, people often overlook proper etiquette in public settings. One common blunder is the way individuals request their bill at the end of a meal, potentially committing a restaurant faux pas.
Etiquette expert and author William Hanson, based in Bristol, recently highlighted a common mistake that many diners make, which is considered impolite. In a TikTok video shared with his three million followers, he emphasized that calling out to a waiter is nearly as disrespectful as clicking at them.
William, the proprietor of The English Manner, an etiquette and protocol coaching firm, provided tips on how to attract the attention of waitstaff without being brash. He advised against raising a hand or using verbal prompts like “excuse me,” suggesting that eye contact and body language are more effective methods.
Following the release of his advice, William’s video quickly gained traction, accumulating 46,800 likes and 1,200 comments. Some viewers humorously shared their own techniques, while others inquired about scenarios where waitstaff avoid eye contact.
William, a British etiquette coach and bestselling author, hosts podcasts and took ownership of The English Manner in 2019 after joining the company in 2008. In a previous revelation, he demonstrated the unconventional method of eating bananas with a knife and fork in an Instagram video, sparking debate among viewers.
His unique approach to dining etiquette and insightful revelations have garnered attention and engagement from a wide audience, making him a prominent figure in the realm of manners and protocol.