Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
5. TIPPING
Restaurant checks rarely include a charge for service. In most restaurants, leaving 18
percent of the total charge is common practice. In addition, tax will be added to your
bill. Customers at a bar may leave 10-15 percent of the bar bill or $1 per drink. In a
few of the finest restaurants, it is appropriate to tip the
maître d'
$5 or more if he or
she stage-manages the service at your table.
6. CELL PHONES
At most restaurants in the city, it is usually considered bad manners to leave cell
phones turned on or to carry on phone conversations inside the restaurant while din-
ing.
7. SMOKING
Smoking is banned in all public buildings, including bars and restaurants. Cigarettes
can be purchased by those over 18 years old; do remember that proof of age is re-
quired, so carry a photo ID.
8. FARMERS' MARKETS
For carry-around food and drink, think farmers' markets. These are popular features
and often have locally grown fresh produce and other products. There's a year-round
Saturday and Sunday market at Eastern market and an April to December seasonal
market on Sunday morning at Dupont Circle.
9. TASTING EVENTS
With its embassies, government affairs, and high-powered dinner parties, Washing-
ton is a big wine and food city. There are tastings and cooking demonstrations or
classes almost every day.
Washingtonian Magazine
keeps an up-to-date registry on
its website.
10. CHILDREN
If you're traveling with kids and want an alternative to McDonalds, good-quality,
child-friendly local chains include BGR, Z-Burger, and Five Guys. Two Amys, near
the Cathedral, is great for pizza.
