The Mistake You Should Never Make With Your Waiter At A French Restaurant - Tasting Table

"In France, calling a server 'garçon' is generally considered outdated and can come across as dismissive. It literally means 'boy,' and while historically it was used in cafés and brasseries, today it feels impersonal."

"It's 'movie French,' not real French. Calling out 'garçon!' has become shorthand in film for signaling that a character is in a Parisian café, even though modern French diners would never do it. It's theatrical, but it doesn't reflect how people actually interact in restaurants today."

"I'm not sure if there is one right way but a polite nod or hand raise should do the trick!"

"Absolutely no clicking your fingers,"

Calling a server 'garçon' in France is generally considered outdated and can come across as dismissive because the word literally means 'boy' and feels impersonal today. The cinematic trope of shouting 'garçon' signals a Parisian café but does not reflect modern dining behavior. Diners should get a server's attention through subtle, patient signals such as making eye contact and waiting for acknowledgement. A polite nod or hand raise is recommended. Snapping or clicking fingers at staff is unacceptable. French dining etiquette favors restraint and respectful nonverbal cues when signaling waitstaff.

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