Dining in Riga

After spending nearly a month in Riga, I have some experience with dining at the various restaurants, cafes, and bars here. If you're from the United States or another similar country, there are differences that you should be aware of. At its core, the theme with customer service in Riga seems to be, "Leave the customers the hell alone, unless they want something." We'll explore deeper into this theme..

Unlike most restaurants in the states, you don't wait for a host to seat you when dining in Riga. Instead, you simply sit wherever you want. After a few minutes, a server will approach you with the menu. They usually give you a few minutes to decide on a drink and meal. I've noticed that they like to take your drink and meal order at the same time. However, you are still the customer. Order as you like! I often ask for a few extra minutes, since I take forever to decide on a meal!

Service in general is slower than in the states, but far more professional. Your drink usually takes a few minutes, even if it's something simple like a soft drink or draft beer. I get the idea that Latvian servers don't want customers to feel rushed. Dining is more of a cultural activity here, not just eat and drink as fast as you can!

Before your meal comes, the server usually brings out your silverware. This is done with great care, as if surgery is about to be performed! The servers are also generally quiet, and will not make small talk or complain about their day. This is considered very poor form.

Once your meal finally comes, you are essentially on your own. The server will not come back to see if you need a drink refill, or to ask how your meal is. This is probably the most staggering difference between restaurants in the United States and Latvia. Here in Riga, the service is much more subtle. If you want a refill, you will have to get the server's attention by waving or making eye contact. This can sometimes be difficult!

After your meal is finished, the server will take your dishes away. They may ask if you want something else, but in many cases will say nothing at all. Again you will have to get the server's attention, in order to collect the bill. My impression again is that the Latvian servers don't want to rush the customers, and will not bring the bill unless asked.

Finally the bill will arrive! As an American you are probably not used to such a slow dining experience, and will probably be getting impatient! The bill will come in a special container where you can put your money. Do not expect to hand your money directly to the server, or return the container immediately! The server will walk away and then you can put your money into the container. After a minute they will return and take the container. Your change will be brought back in the same container. You can then leave a tip in the container if you wish.

Dining at restaurants in Riga is an interesting experience, but one that I imagine many Americans will find too slow for their taste. However, that's the point! Enjoy the cultural experience and appreciate the subtleties of dining in Latvia.