Do Americans recieve poorer service in European restaurants?

[Susan Decoteau-Ferrier]

My husband and I have traveled to various parts of Europe over the past few years and we have noticed that when dining out the service declines once we have recieved our meal. Wait staff does not return to take dessert or coffee orders, bring the bill or otherwise check in beyond the meal being served. Is this typical in Europe? Are we impatient? Is it customary to linger where as in the US servers want you to leave to make room for the next tipping customer? Or do Americans recieve poorer service than Europeans?

[Darryl Musick]

I haven't really noticed any difference in service because I'm (obviously) American. Just like here, if I treat the waitstaff nicely and with respect, things seem to move along swimmingly. Places that I have seen poor service, it seems like they treat everyone that way. And, yes, in a lot of European restaurants...particulary in places like France, Italy, and the like...people tend to linger and take things very relaxing and longingly.  If I want something fast, I'll usually eat street food or at a market.

[Travel with Pen and Palate]

It's a very good and reasonable question Susan since the difference in the systems is frequently the reason why Americans believe "service" in Europe is "lacking." In Europe it is rude if the server interrupts your meal. "Turning the table over" is an American concept to pack more diners and maximize profits. In Europe, the table is yours until closing if you wish. Dining in a European restaurant is considered an entertainment in itself, unlike USA where it's a stop on the way to the "main event." This is true not just in Europe but in South and Central America and in many parts of Asia. If you want another course, drink, dessert, coffee and/or the bill the guest discreetly signals the server – snapping fingers is very rude. America is one of the rare countries where the wage of the server is dependent on a tip. In most European countries, working in a restaurant/hotel is an honorable profession and workers are paid a living wage. And yes, we Americans are impatient!

[Ed Adams]

The mode I operate is;  When entering a business - be it a Restaurant or retail or whatever - I act like I am entering a good friends home. I smile, look people in the eye, talk soft, remember where I am and -- having checked out ahead of time any local customs I may not be familiar with -- try to fit in like a local.  This works in Dallas - Tokyo - B.A.- Athens and just about the rest of the world also.  I live to Travel == and Travel  to live //  This is a Great World isn't it ?????

[YAPESA TRAVELERS AND FREIGHTERS]

Apologies for being late to reply.  We have our office in  Kenya etc..  how can we help ? We have an unparalleled  service and outstanding reputation in the market place  for the  luxury traveler  individual and/or  group or  Incentive.

Please let me know if  we can help. 

Thank you 

regards

Yours Faithfully,

Victor Matete

Director
YAPESA TRAVELERS AND FREIGHTERS CONSULTANTS AGENCIES LTD.
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NAIROBI KENYA

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