Eating in America: this is what stands out
America feels familiar because you speak the language and know the scenery from all those films and series. It’s precisely the small differences that make you realize you’re actually quite a long way from home. This is what stood out to us about eating (out) in America!
Everything is sweet
Even plain white bread from the supermarket tastes incredibly sweet—it’s almost like cake! It also stays soft and fresh until the cows come home, so who knows what’s in that bread?
The waitress introduces herself
If you go out to eat, don’t be alarmed if the waitress or waiter introduces themselves. ‘Hi, I am Holly and I will be your waitress this evening.’ Very hospitable! (And with the hope of a hefty tip, see number 3.)
Tipping is mandatory
Leaving a tip is almost mandatory. At least 15 percent, preferably 20. Not so strange, because the hourly wages of people working in hospitality in America are terribly low—no Dutch supermarket stocker would get out of bed for that. The tips make up for it all. So: get tipping!
Is your glass empty already?
In many restaurants, your glass is refilled without you asking. Not just your water glass—and that’s poured immediately, and there won’t be a bottle of Spa Blauw on your bill later—but also when you order a soft drink. Very hospitable, and you’ll wobble back outside with a belly sloshing with cola.
Those portions are HUGE
You only believe it when you see it on your plate: the portions are huge! Especially in diners, you get enormous plates piled high. Lots of meat and fish, plus enough side dishes to feed an average family.
Take it home? No problem
Don’t worry about those large portions: anything you can’t finish is simply packed up in a doggy bag. You take it home, give it to the dog, or heat it up later that evening (or the next morning) for round two. Good for reducing food waste!
We don’t linger over dinner
Want to order dessert? Or a cup of coffee? If the answer is no, the bill will be on the table in no time. They’re not really ones for lingering over dinner here. The staff are sometimes urged to clear away more quickly and even not to offer dessert, in order to keep the turnover per table high. And that means: once you’ve finished eating, it’s time to leave.
May I see your ID?
Even if you have a face like a crumpled newspaper and your hair is more gray than blond, the staff may still ask for your ID to determine whether you’re old enough to drink alcohol. Still, a compliment!
Also read:
- Unbelievable: this green sludge is a popular American salad
- This video shows the huge difference between European and American cuisines
- Wait, what? This food is normal in America, and we find it, uh, unusual
Source: Insider, Constative
