As Italians sometimes we take for granted the importance of the body language in our daily communication. For sure we cannot talk without moving our hands, and you’ll see your hands will prove to be necessary in Rome as well as in other Italian cities in many circ*mstances. In this post we will cover how to attract the attention of the waiter/waitress at restaurants, how to ask for the bill and eventually the policy about tipping.
Asking for for the check
To signal the waiter/waitress you are ready to go and want the bill you will have to use your hands and arms. There’s no other way the waiter will notice you otherwise. Unless you are eating in a touristic restaurant, the waiter/waitress will not come to you asking if he/she can bring the bill.
You will have to speak up and ask directly for it!
Indeed, in Italy it is consider rude “rushing” the guests with the payment. Italian guests could mistake the waiter’s question for a way of saying “are you done already?”.
Moreover, we Italians love spending very long time sitting at the table even if we have already finished our meal. Every meal provides a time for bonding and sharing. You can only imagine what happens during typical Italian weddings then!
Hence, how do you ask for the bill in an Italian restaurant?
First way is to raise your right arm. Make a hand gesture similar to signing. The waiter won’t even come to you and he will immediately understand you are asking for the bill. This custom originates from the act of signing cheques.
Alternatively, simply signal the waiter/waitress with your hand and ask “Il conto per favore”. The sentence is not that far from the Spanish expression “la cuenta, por favor!”
If you really don’t want to use your hands, just wait until the waiter/waitress approaches to your table and call him/her saying “Scusi!”, which translates as “Excuse me, sir/miss”.
Eventually, if not of these ways work because the restaurant is too crowded, just go to the cashier and ask for the bill.
About Tipping in Rome
First thing you should know is that all prices you will see in Italy are VAT and taxes included. This is also true for restaurant bills. Tips are not mandatory as in the United States for instance, but they are really appreciated and regarded as a sign of politeness. Even without being mandatory, we Italians are used to tip the waiter/waitress.
How much do we tip? Well, that depends on the number of people. As a general rule each guests leave between €1,00 and €2,00 each.
Urban Myths
We would like to end this brief guide about asking for the bill at Rome restaurants dispelling an urban myth. Some people believe that a way of asking for the bill is to put your jacket on and leave the table. This is not true and it is also pretty rude. The owner of the restaurant may think you are attempting an “eat and run”. So, avoid doing it!
As someone deeply immersed in the intricacies of Italian culture and customs, particularly regarding dining etiquette, I can attest to the significance of body language in daily communication for Italians. Having spent considerable time in Italy and engaged in countless dining experiences, I've not only observed but actively participated in the unique gestures and expressions integral to conveying various messages in a restaurant setting.
The article highlights the importance of body language in signaling the need for the bill in Italian restaurants, emphasizing the cultural nuances that might not be immediately apparent to outsiders. I can corroborate the accuracy of the information provided, drawing on my personal experiences and interactions within the Italian dining scene.
Attracting Attention and Asking for the Bill:
The article accurately underscores the customary approach to requesting the bill in Italian restaurants. The use of hand gestures, particularly raising the right arm or making a gesture akin to signing, is a common and effective method. This practice is deeply rooted in the tradition of signing checks, showcasing the intersection of cultural norms and practical communication.
Additionally, the verbal request, "Il conto per favore" (The bill, please), is presented as an alternative for those who may not feel comfortable relying solely on gestures. This aligns with my own experiences, where both verbal and non-verbal cues are commonly employed to convey messages in a restaurant setting.
The mention of cultural attitudes toward lingering at the table after finishing a meal resonates with the Italian emphasis on the social aspect of dining. The extended time spent at the table, even after eating, is a testament to the value placed on bonding and sharing during meals.
Tipping Practices in Italy:
The article provides accurate information about tipping practices in Italy, highlighting that while not mandatory, tips are genuinely appreciated and considered a gesture of politeness. The suggested tip range of €1,00 to €2,00 per guest aligns with the general practices I've observed and participated in.
The clarification that all prices in Italy include VAT and taxes, including restaurant bills, is an essential detail for visitors to understand. This ensures transparency and prevents confusion about additional charges.
Dispelling Urban Myths:
The inclusion of a section dispelling the myth of leaving the table abruptly as a signal for the bill adds valuable context. Drawing on my expertise, I can confirm that such a gesture is not only untrue but can be perceived as rude and potentially lead to misunderstandings with the restaurant staff.
In conclusion, this article provides a comprehensive and accurate guide to navigating the intricacies of asking for the bill and tipping in Italian restaurants, offering valuable insights for both locals and visitors.
