I’m a Paris Local and This Is the Most Important Etiquette Tip to Know When Visiting France

France is a country that honors the art of craftsmanship in nearly every aspect, from fashion to fromage. Savoir-faire is so highly celebrated here that there’s even a dedicated title for the nation’s top craftspeople: Meilleurs Ouvriers de France. The century-old competition, held every four years, is considered as prestigious as a Michelin star—and many award-winning chefs have earned both.

In Paris, each neighborhood feels like its own village. Over time, you naturally develop relationships with everyone from the cordonnier (cobbler) to thecaviste (wine shop owner), who continues to surprise me with new producers from some of my favorite French wine regions, like Burgundy and Beaujolais. But don’t expect to charm your local cafe on day one.

I had to learn the art of patience when I first moved to France more than a decade ago. I was surprised by how people would have full-on lengthy conversations with shopkeepers or bakers at the register while a growing line of customers waited without complaint. I quickly realized that while efficiency is highly valued in the U.S., France prioritizes presence—and patience.

At most restaurants, you can linger long after the final bite of dessert, chatting and enjoying the atmosphere without being nudged to leave for the next round of diners. Higher-end restaurants often have two set seatings (typically around 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.) but unless you ask for l’addition (the check), no one will expect (or not-so-subtly urge) you dine quickly and leave.

While a single server can manage an entire cafe terrace and remember every order without writing them down, don’t expect your verre de vin to arrive immediately. The best way to experience a city like Paris the way locals do? Sit down and stay a while.

Parisian servers may have an undeserved reputation for being slow, but instead of complaining or searching for faster service elsewhere, settle in with a book or newspaper. You might find your patience being rewarded when the server cracks a smile or a joke. And if you adopt a cafe as your regular spot, they’ll soon memorize your order, and you may be surprised at how quickly your espresso arrives for the rest of your trip.