Savoring Mexico: Dining Insights
When I first began visiting Mexico 47 years ago, I was working in the restaurant industry, where the phrase “turn ‘em and burn ‘em” was commonly used. It was a mentality that promoted quick turnover to maximize profits, benefiting everyone from the waitstaff to the owners.
Imagine my surprise when I arrived in Mexico, only to find that the philosophy was completely different. Here, dining is a relaxed, leisurely experience where efficiency takes a backseat to enjoyment.
I quickly had to adjust my expectations. My new mantra became: “If I get my food within 30 minutes and 50% of what I ordered, I’ll be happy.” Over the years, service has improved, but dining out in Mexico remains an unhurried experience—the antithesis of “turn ‘em and burn ‘em.” They genuinely want you to take your time, even if that means waiting a little longer to pay the bill because you can’t find your waiter.
Dining Tips for Mexico:
Request the bill early: When the waiter clears your plate, ask for “la cuenta” (the bill). Otherwise, finding them later may be a challenge.
Have your payment ready: Once the bill arrives, be prepared with pesos or a credit card; otherwise, the waiter may not return for a while.
How to call the waiter: To get their attention, try saying “Oye, Joven” (“Hey, young one”), a common and friendly phrase. Alternatively, “Oye, Caballero” (gentleman) or simply “Caballero” works as well.
Tipping Guidelines:
10% for casual dining
15% for upscale establishments
Keep in mind that over-tipping can sometimes create tension or unintended favoritism toward foreigners.
Useful Phrases for Dining Out:
Ordering politely: Instead of "Yo quiero" (“I want”), which can sound demanding, try "Me das por favor?" (or the more formal "Me da por favor?"), which translates to "Can you please give me?"
Requesting complimentary items: If asking for something free like water or chips, use "Me regalas por favor?" Derived from "regalar" (“to gift”), this is a polite way to request items at no charge.
Showing appreciation: When the server brings something, say "Muy amable" (“Very kind”) to express gratitude.
Thanking in advance: "Gracias de antemano" (“Thanks in advance”) is a thoughtful phrase to use after ordering.
Asking for more time: If the waiter asks if you’re ready to order and you need more time, say "Al rato" (“Soon”). If you need just a little time, say "Al ratito" (“Very soon”), though keep in mind that "very soon" may have a different meaning in Mexico!
A lovely custom in Mexico is hearing fellow diners greet one another with "Buen provecho" (or simply **"Provecho"**) as a way of saying, "Enjoy your meal." This small yet heartfelt gesture is always met with a grateful "Gracias." Next time you're dining out, try saying "Provecho" as you pass by a table of diners—you'll be surprised how much it is appreciated.
Dining in Mexico is about more than just food—it reflects the country’s inclusive, warm, and patient culture.
Besides my website, I am the administrator for two Facebook groups you might want to join for more Spanish expressions and helpful tips for living in Mexico - Expat Pathway Mexico and Making Mexico Your Home.
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