Here at Chez Max, we do our best to bring a slice of Paris to the heart of Dublin—not just through the food and wine, but through the little touches that make French dining feel like… well, French dining.
Now, if you’ve ever dined in France (or with us), you may have noticed a few differences in how things are done. The French have a certain way of doing things at the table—some charming, some unexpected, and all worth knowing if you want to enjoy the full experience. So, whether you’re joining us for lunch, dinner, or just a glass of red and a crème brûlée, here’s a crash course in le savoir-vivre—with an Irish wink, of course.
1. Hands on the Table… But Easy on the Elbows
In France, it’s common to keep your hands visible on the table during a meal—but resting your elbows? Non merci! It’s about posture, manners, and keeping the conversation open. A casual hand resting near your plate? Perfectly fine. Elbows perched like you’re waiting for mass to start? Maybe not.
2. Salads: No Knives, No Stress
This one surprises a lot of people! The French generally don’t cut their salad leaves with a knife. Instead, you gently fold them with your fork. Yes, it might take a little finesse, but there’s something oddly satisfying about it—and trust us, you’ll feel très chic doing it.
3. Bread Etiquette 101
Ah, the baguette. As tempting as it may be, don’t take a big bite out of the whole thing. The French tear off bite-sized pieces with their hands—no slicing, no buttering (more on that in a sec), just simple, rustic enjoyment. It’s not meant to be a starter either—it’s there to accompany your meal, mop up that lovely sauce, and keep you company between bites.
4. Hold the Butter, Please
Here’s one that catches a few off guard: at dinner in France, butter isn’t typically served with bread. It’s just not part of the tradition. You’ll see it at breakfast, sure—but at lunch or dinner, it’s all about letting the bread (and the rest of the meal) shine. Don’t worry—we know the Irish love their butter, and we’ll never judge. Promise.
So, Why Does It Matter?
Because it’s the little things that make the experience. French dining isn’t about rules for the sake of it—it’s about slowing down, savouring your meal, and being present. It’s a ritual, a rhythm, a joy. And at Chez Max, we’re proud to bring a bit of that rhythm to Dublin.
So next time you join us, maybe try folding your salad leaves, or skipping the butter just for fun. Worst case? You’ve still got a glass of wine in hand and something delicious on your plate. Not too bad, eh?
