Restaurants in Poland are somewhat different than in the U.S. While the concept is, of course, the same (you sit down, order food, eat, pay, and leave), it may be helpful to know that the restaurant culture may offer some surprises.
Seat Yourself
Many restaurants in Poland require you to seat yourself. While this is not the rule, if no one is there to greet you at the door, it's acceptable to find a table that is comfortable for you.Customer service is limited to the bare minimum. Don't be offended or cause a scene if your waiter or waitress doesn't appear every five minutes to make sure that your current mouthful is to your liking. In Poland, they'll leave you alone to eat for so long you may think you've been forgotten.
Wait Time
The length of time you'll have to wait for your menu, for waitstaff to take your order, for your food to come, and for your bill will be much greater in Polish restaurants than in the U.S. If you're in a hurry, ask someone to get your bill.Drink and Chat
In Poland's restaurants, it's expected that you'll take your time eating, chatting, and enjoying a drink or two. While in the U.S., freezing a/c temperatures, hurried waitstaff, and pre-prepared food is the norm at non-fine-dining establishments (intended to usher diners in and quickly out), you'll find none of this at Polish restaurants. Enjoying the company of your companions and the extensive drink menu is normal. You'll find it a wonderful change if you're used to the gobble-and-go culture, especially when seated on a restaurant patio on a warm evenings as the sun sets behind historic architecture.No Free Refills
If you want water, you'll have to order bottled water. Mineral water, with bubbles or without, is usually available. (Note, though, that beer may be cheaper.) Your bottled water may or may not be chilled. You'll be given a glass, but rarely ice. This can seem like torture on a hot day, but it is possible to adjust to this nuance.Menus
In city centers, menus will often be in English, Polish, and another language if the tourist population is varied enough. For example, in
Gdansk, menus will also be available in German. Menus are usually displayed outside, so you can decide prior to entering if the restaurant's offerings appeal to your appetite.
Tipping
It's typical to round up the bill for the tip, but not necessary to go overboard. Just leave what you feel comfortable leaving.
