Ever notice how two people can experience the same restaurant in totally different ways?
I spent years working in fine dining and saw firsthand how backgrounds shape dining choices. My parents, both teachers, focused on education over money. They taught me to value every dollar. But in my job, I met families who saw dining as an experience, not just a meal. The contrast was eye-opening.
Here are some key differences I’ve noticed between these two groups:
1. Water Choices
In high-end restaurants, it’s common for diners to order fancy bottled water without a second thought. I once watched a table rack up a $40 bill just on water! Meanwhile, my dad would cringe at ordering anything but tap. To wealthy customers, it’s about enhancing the dining experience, while for others, it feels wasteful.
2. Appetizers Left Untouched
Imagine spending $28 on an appetizer and only taking a couple of bites. For many, that’s hard to digest. But for upper-middle-class diners, it’s often about sampling different dishes, not necessarily finishing everything. It’s a mindset shift: abundance versus scarcity.
3. Sending Back Dishes
At times, customers return dishes that are edible, just not exactly what they envisioned. Many working-class diners hesitate to complain, fearing they’ll seem rude. On the flip side, for wealthier customers, it’s about getting what they pay for.
4. Ordering Wine by the Bottle
I’d watch expats order expensive bottles of wine, drink just part of it, and leave the rest. This doesn’t make sense for those who count every penny. For affluent diners, it’s about the total experience, not just consuming alcohol.
5. Sharing Entrees
It’s common for diners to order multiple entrees for the table, tasting a bit from each dish. To those not used to this, it can seem wasteful, but for many, it’s about enjoying a communal and eventful dining experience.
6. Adding Premium Items
A $38 plate of pasta becomes even pricier with truffle shavings and caviar. While working-class diners might question the added expense, for others, it’s a chance to enjoy something extra special, regardless of actual value.
7. Tipping Generously
Even when tipping is already included, many upper-middle-class diners still leave extra. While servers appreciate this generosity, those from more frugal backgrounds may see it as unnecessary.
8. Dessert and Coffee After a Full Meal
No one really needs to order dessert after a hearty meal, but for many, it’s about the ritual of ending the meal on a high note.
9. Valet Parking
Paying for valet when street parking is available can seem silly, but for wealthier diners, it’s about convenience and removing hassle from the dining experience.
After years of observing these behaviors, I realize there isn’t a right or wrong way to dine. Each group values different aspects—be it value, experience, or enjoyment. Understanding these perspectives can help bridge the gap, assuring that everyone can savor their unique experience at the table.
For a deeper dive into dining behavior and customer service expectations, you might explore insights from the National Restaurant Association, which often analyzes consumer trends in the dining industry.
