When strolling along and seeing an outdoor cafe you are interested in, is there a hostess inside that you check in with or do you just grab a seat?
Posted by
Paris
7301 posts
If it is for a meal, then it's best to pop your head inside and ask. If there's two or more of you, the other people can hover around the table to avoid losing it to people who'd just sit without asking.
If it is just for drinks/coffee, then it's usually fine to sit down.
Around mealtimes, if you just want a drink, do not sit on a table that has cutlery on it. Many cafes will keep a few tables for folks who don't want to eat.
But really, there is no hard and fast rule.
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
14735 posts
Yes, to what Balso says. I usually am solo so try to catch the eye of a waiter or maitre d' and point to a table. If it's somewhere where I go often I'll definitely catch their eye before sitting down. The tablecloth/set table thing is definitely something to be aware of especially if you just want a glass of wine.
Posted by
OP
Michigan
19 posts
Thank you both very much!