10 codes to know so you don’t stand out in a chic Parisian venue

Elegant dining in Paris is not just a matter of wearing the right outfit. It’s also a question of attitude, controlled gestures and discretion.

Paris, the capital of style, has its implicit rules – especially when you enter a refined setting: a prestigious hotel, a gourmet restaurant or a confidential club. These codes may seem anecdotal, but they make all the difference between someone who is simply well-dressed… and someone who really belongs. Here are 10 reflexes to adopt to keep the right tone, without false notes.

1. No glasses on the tablecloth (or telephone)

A dinner party is neither a meeting nor an unpacking of personal items. Keep your glasses, phone and make-up bag off the table, ideally in a discreet bag. Elegance also means restraint.

2. Never toast with water… or ten.

Never toast with water. And when there are more than six of us, we don’t get our arms tangled. What’s best? Raise your glass slightly, smiling at those close to you.

3. Outer fork first

If there is more than one place setting, start with the outer ones. Each dish has its own tool. This simple code avoids clumsiness and shows that you know how to read a table.

4. Wipe before drinking, not after.

A good gesture: dab your lips with the napkin before bringing the glass to your mouth. That way, you’ll avoid any unsightly marks. A small but essential detail.

5. Forget “health”: say “yours”.

In France, we don’t toast the way we do elsewhere. “À votre santé” may be acceptable, but “santé” alone is too familiar. What’s more chic? A frank look, a smile and a “à vous”.

6. Waiting for the host’s toast

Never touch your wine glass before your host raises his. This simple gesture is a mark of respect – and a way of not stealing the moment.

7. “Bon appétit”: no thanks

It’s one of the most subtle codes: in France, wishing for appetite is frowned upon. We simply say “je vous en prie”, or start eating with discretion.

8. Salad doesn’t cut

A slightly technical rule: you don’t cut your salad with a knife. It can be folded, rolled or left whole. Otherwise, be patient.

9. The dirty knife stays on the plate

Never on the tablecloth. Any cutlery used goes back on the plate, even briefly. It’s a question of hygiene as much as dress.

10. Towel: never in a ball, never on the chair

When it’s time to leave, you leave your napkin folded carelessly to the left of the plate. Not in a ball, not on the chair. A final gesture that signals a classy exit.

Looking for places that live up to these standards? Discover our selection of the most elegant restaurants in Paris

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