It’s no secret that dining etiquette has evolved over the years. From the usage of cutlery to tipping manners and even the ordering etiquette have come under scrutiny as diners have grown more conscious and mindful of their dining experience. You may think you’re a considerate diner but there are several smaller details you may be overlooking.
For instance, how you order water especially when you’re out in a group, says a lot about you. It may sound shocking but ordering water for your fellow diners may be considered rude by many and there are plenty of reasons for that, mostly rooted in social considerations.
While water is a common choice, some guests might prefer to order a different beverage, whether it's soda, wine, juice, or a speciality drink. By ordering water for the table, you may inadvertently take away the opportunity for others to make their own choice, which can feel presumptuous. In Indian restaurants, table water is usually filtered water and mineral water, which is generally considered safer is chargeable and needs to be ordered. Ordering water for the table without consulting others may be rude since others may not need the water and may be forced to pay for it.
Moreover, in many restaurants, especially in fine diners, the waitstaff is trained to offer water to guests upon seating. By ordering water for the table, you may be inadvertently disrupting the flow of service or creating. In certain situations, the sequence of service is carefully orchestrated. Water may be served automatically, or the server might ask each guest for their drink preference individually. When you order water for everyone, it can create further confusion.
Ordering water for the table is a big no-no when you’re dining with someone from a different country. For example, in certain European countries, it is customary to start a meal with a glass of wine or an aperitif. In these settings, ordering water for the table might be seen as ignoring or dismissing these traditions, which can come across as disrespectful.
In many Asian cultures, tea is commonly served with meals, and offering water instead could be interpreted as a lack of understanding or appreciation of the cultural norms. Similarly, in fine dining establishments, the selection of wine or other beverages can be a key aspect of the dining experience. By preemptively ordering water, you might disrupt this process.
Another reason why ordering water for the table could be seen as bad etiquette is related to environmental concerns. In some regions, particularly in areas experiencing water scarcity, ordering large amounts of water that might go to waste can be seen as irresponsible. Even in places where water is plentiful, there’s a growing awareness of the environmental impact of excessive water consumption, especially when bottled water is involved.
If the restaurant serves bottled water and you order it for the table without asking whether everyone wants it, you may end up with unopened bottles that go to waste. This not only contributes to environmental waste but can also increase the cost of the meal unnecessarily.