Dining out is a treat for many people. Whether you visit a restaurant for a special occasion or just for a night out, it's enjoyable to let someone else do the cooking for a change

Many diners don't realize the central role that the wait staff play in ensuring that dining out is pleasurable. In fact, the best way to make your dining experience as amazing as possible is to be kind and compassionate to the people serving you your food.

Author Jeremy Wilson has spent years in the restaurant industry and has seen every type of bad customer, from the unintentionally inconsiderate to the downright obnoxious. In The Diner's Companion, he shares some unwritten rules to help you stay on the right side of servers and cooks so they will be responsive to your needs.

This lighthearted, easy-to-read guide includes tips on the following:

• picking the right restaurant,
• communicating your dietary restrictions,
• making reservations,
• booking for a large party,
• navigating the menu,
• ordering politely,
• conversing with servers, and
• paying and tipping.

By avoiding simple mistakes and practicing respectful restaurant etiquette, you can make sure you will be treated like a welcome guest.