Restaurants

11 Differences Between US And European Restaurants You Need To Know Before Traveling By Andy Beth Miller Nov. 13, 2025 7:40 am EST

Dining out abroad can be one of the most memorable parts of any getaway, but for Americans traveling to Europe, the restaurant experience often feels surprisingly different from what they're used to back home. From how you're served to how you pay the bill, and even what is on the menu and how it arrives at your table, every stage of a European restaurant visit reflects deeper cultural values and varying perspectives regarding food, time, and hospitality. Understanding these nuances can help avoid frustration, confusion, or even embarrassment, and transform an ordinary meal into a meaningful cultural exchange.

American restaurants often

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