25 Things You Should Never, Ever Do at a Fancy Restaurant

Mom again. Nobody wants to see your partially masticated charred rare ribeye or pad Thai — and, anyway, they won’t understand what you’re saying if you’re talking through whatever it is you’re chewing on.

Does this really have to be explained? They have nice big mirrors in the restroom.

Getting food stuck in your teeth can be very annoying, but not as annoying as watching someone trying to pry it out. If you can’t suffer in silence for a while, excuse yourself and head for the restroom. You can check your makeup while you’re there.

Yes, yes, we know. It’s very important for you to be connected to your office/children/BFF almost constantly — but a table at a nice restaurant isn’t the place to do it. If someone calls you, don’t answer (or answer and apologize for not being able to talk until later); and don’t initiate a call unless it’s an emergency. And no, no texting either.

There’s just no excuse for this. Servers have a tough job. You’re not better than they are just because you’re sitting at the table. Ask, don’t demand. Be polite.