Dining Guide / Conversation & Thanks
Phones at the Table
Put your phone away during the meal and give your time to the people in front of you.
Key Points
- Keep your phone off the table, silenced, and tucked away in your bag or pocket.
- Check calls and messages after the meal.
- If you’re expecting something important, mention it at the start: “I may need to take an urgent call.”
- If it comes, say “Excuse me,” step away from the table and keep it short.
- If you’d like to photograph the food, ask first and be quick. At formal meals, skip it.
Do
- Silence your phone before the meal
- Step away to handle anything urgent
Avoid
- Looking at your screen at the table
- Leaving your phone face down on the table
- Taking a call at your seat
Handy Tip
Even face down, a phone on the table says “something else is on my mind.” Keeping it out of sight is best.