Yelp Survey on Dining Etiquette

Yelp has unveiled its inaugural etiquette guide, addressing the do's and don'ts of dining out, based on a survey of its users. A significant 80% of respondents believe that phones should be put away during meals, particularly on dates, while only 54% feel the same for family gatherings. Etiquette expert Meier emphasized the importance of keeping personal items, including cellphones, off the table, suggesting that diners explain any necessity for having their phones visible to their companions. The survey also revealed insights into who should pay the bill on dates, with 68% of participants believing the person who initiated the date should cover the costs. Regional differences emerged, as 65% of respondents from the South preferred splitting the check, while 34% in the Northeast favored one person paying the entire bill upfront. Timeliness was highlighted as a crucial aspect of dining etiquette, with 76% of participants deeming it unacceptable to arrive more than 10 minutes late for a reservation. Tipping practices were also examined, showing that 65% of diners typically tip the standard 20%, yet nearly 90% prefer to adjust their tips based on service quality. Meier noted the importance of advance notice regarding automatic tipping policies to prevent surprises on the final bill. She concluded by stressing that thoughtful tipping reflects the quality of service received and contributes to a positive dining experience for all involved.