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COMMON QUESTIONS
Uniquely American Questions
This section discusses food in the United States
as it applies to international visitors.
AMERICAN FOOD
The types of food and restaurants to be found in America are as diverse
as its people. Look in the Yellow Pages phone directory of the city you
will be visiting to find a list of restaurants available.
Restaurants may specialize in one or a combination of the following
cuisines: American, Asian, Bakery/Desserts, Bagels, Breakfast, Brunch,
Chinese, Continental, Contemporary, Deli/Subs/Sandwiches, English, French,
German, Greek, Indian, International, Italian, Japanese, Mexican/Tex-Mex,
Middle Eastern, Pizza, Pubs & Brew Pubs, Santa Fe/Southwestern, Seafood,
Steaks, Sushi, Thai, Vietnamese, and many more.
In addition to specialty food eateries and shops, you will also find
a variety of types of food establishments including the following:
"Fast Food' restaurants: Places like McDonald's® or Burger
King® where you can purchase a low-priced meal (under $7.00 per person)
and almost always be served in under five minutes. You can take your food
with you or eat in at most of these restaurants. In most cases, you will
not have anyone serving you at the table. A "tip" or gratuity
is not expected at this type of self-service, cafeteria style restaurant.
Sit-down low/medium priced family restaurants: These are places
where you can sit down and be served in a family atmosphere and eat for
under $10-15 per person. Often the selection at these restaurants is much
more diverse and the wait is longer (approx. 15-20 minutes). Some of these
establishments do not serve alcohol. A gratuity is usually expected at
this type of sit-down restaurant. If you are unsure, ask the person who
seats you at your table.
Fine dining: If you are looking for a more relaxed atmosphere
where you can order a gourmet meal, dress up in your best clothes, and
have valet parking for your car, visit a more expensive restaurant. Restaurants
in this category often require you to call to make reservations for a
meal, so be sure to ask about smoking and non-smoking sections, and ask
if there is a dress code. Meals will usually cost more than those at medium-priced
restaurants, and the wait and pace of the meal may be much slower. A gratuity
is expected at this type of restaurant unless the restaurant states otherwise.
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