Navigating a Parisian dinner invitation can be a delightful yet daunting experience. From the moment you receive that coveted invite, the excitement and nerves intertwine. Imagine stepping into an elegant soirée, where every detail from RSVP etiquette to dining decorum plays a crucial role. Whether you’re an avid traveller, a curious foodie, or living here in France; mastering the art of French dining customs is essential. Here are our ten top tips to help you ace your next Parisian dinner invite like a true local.
How To Be the Perfect Guest at A Parisian Dinner Party
RSVP Promptly
Don’t leave your host hanging—reply swiftly like the stylish Parisian you aspire to be. I’ve added some french phrases to help you accept your Parisian dinner invitation graciously at the end of this post!
Dress to Impress
Channel your inner fashionista. Chic and sophisticated is the name of the game.
Arrive Fashionably Late
Rock up 10-15 minutes after the stated time. It’s fashionably late, not rudely early.
Bring a Thoughtful Gift
A bottle of fine wine, exquisite flowers, or gourmet chocolates will earn you major brownie points.
Master the Art of Conversation
Brush up on your small talk. Be ready to discuss anything from politics to the latest Parisian café openings.
Wait for the Host to Start
Hold your horses and wait for the host to make the first move before digging in.
Mind Your Manners
Elbows off the table, love. A bit of decorum goes a long way.
Pace Yourself
This isn’t a race. Savour each course and relish the leisurely pace of a French dinner.
Compliment the Chef
Genuine praise for the culinary delights will always hit the mark.
Offer to Help
Lend a hand with clearing the table or serving drinks. It’s the polite thing to do.
More tips on navigating a Parisian Dinner Invitation
For a deeper dive into these tips and more of stories about life here in Paris, check out the full post that I wrote about Navigating a Parisian dinner invitation over on the American in Paris blog. This post was written out as a guide following some American friends upset my Parisian wife with their lack of manners and knowledge on how to eat like the french and what to do when invited to dinner.
We know not every dinner party or parisian is the same and we are very aware that we may have missed some tips. If you are french or living here in France, we would love to hear from you with your tips on how to navigate a french dinner invitation? Drop us a comment or send us an email Tours@eatlikethefrench.com
FAQs for Navigating a Parisian Dinner Invitation
What should I wear to a Parisian dinner party?
Dress to impress! Opt for chic and sophisticated attire. Think stylish but not overly formal.
Is it okay to arrive early to a Parisian dinner?
No, it’s best to arrive 10-15 minutes late. Arriving early can catch your host unprepared.
What gift should I bring to a Parisian dinner?
A thoughtful gift like a bottle of fine wine, flowers, or gourmet chocolates is always appreciated. We always prefer something that we can consume as part of the party or that tells us a little something about where the person we have invited comes from. Bring a conversation starter.
Can I start eating as soon as I’m served?
Wait for your host to start eating first or for the host’s to invite you to start. It’s a sign of respect and good manners.
How can I engage in conversation at a Parisian dinner?
Be prepared to discuss a variety of topics. French dinners often involve lively and diverse conversations. If in doubt read the news and pick a topic you can talk about for a few minutes.
How do I accept an invitation to a Parisian Dinner Party?
Here are five different friendly phrases to help you accept your parisian dinner invite like a pro.
“C’est avec grand plaisir que j’accepte votre invitation à dîner. Merci beaucoup!” – It is with great pleasure that I accept your dinner invitation. Thank you very much!
“Je suis ravi(e) d’accepter votre invitation à dîner. À très bientôt!” – I am delighted to accept your dinner invitation. See you soon!
“Merci pour votre invitation. Ce sera un plaisir de partager ce dîner avec vous.” – Thank you for your invitation. It will be a pleasure to share this dinner with you.
“Quelle belle invitation! Je suis impatient(e) d’y être.” – What a lovely invitation! I am looking forward to it.
“C’est avec joie que j’accepte votre aimable invitation à dîner.” – It is with joy that I accept your kind dinner invitation.
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