A business meal in Germany is much more than a culinary occasion. It is a social ritual that reflects professionalism, respect, and cultural awareness. Mastering German dining etiquette signals credibility and confidence – ignoring it can quietly undermine trust.

Punctuality as a Calling Card

Time is a core value in German business culture, and that includes restaurant appointments. Being late, even by a few minutes, can create a negative impression. Arriving five to ten minutes early is ideal. If a delay is unavoidable, a brief apology by phone or message is
expected as a matter of courtesy.

Greetings and Seating

A firm – but not crushing – handshake, steady eye contact, and a polite smile set the tone for a professional encounter. Titles and surnames are used until the host or counterpart explicitly offers to switch to first names.
The seating arrangement is usually determined by the host. Guests should wait to be shown their seat or for the host to sit down first. Taking a seat uninvited is considered impolite.

Ordering and Conduct

Discretion and restraint are key virtues at the German table.
Guests should avoid ordering the most expensive dish or the finest wine. Alcohol, typically beer or wine, is acceptable in
moderation; excess is not. Those who prefer not to drink simply decline politely – “I’m
driving” is a perfectly valid explanation.
Business topics are rarely discussed at the start of the meal. Initial conversation tends to focus on neutral, pleasant subjects such as travel, culture, or current events. Only after the main course – or with coffee – will the host steer the discussion toward business matters.

Table Manners with Structure
German table manners follow a clear system:

 Cutlery remains in the hands throughout the meal – fork in the left hand, knife in the right.
 Arms rest visibly on the table, but elbows should stay off.
 Bread is broken into small pieces, not cut or bitten off.
 Eye contact during toasts is essential; avoiding it may seem inattentive or disrespectful.
 The napkin rests on the lap, never tucked into the collar, and is placed loosely to the left of the plate after the meal.

Mobile phones are kept out of sight and on silent. Checking messages or taking calls during the meal signals disinterest – a serious breach of etiquette in German business culture.

The Bill – A Matter of Leadership

In Germany, the person who extends the invitation or initiates the meeting is expected to pay. When the server asks if the bill should be split, the host will typically intervene. Guests should not insist on paying their share – it can be interpreted as rejecting the host’s gesture.

A tip of five to ten percent is standard. It is not left on the table, but added directly to the total
when paying: for example, “Make it 50 euros, please.”

Common Pitfalls for International Guests

What is seen as friendly or relaxed elsewhere may appear unprofessional in Germany.
Speaking too loudly, using exaggerated gestures, or diving into business topics too early are common missteps. Overly effusive praise can also seem insincere.
Sensitive subjects – politics, religion, or personal issues – should be avoided unless there is a close relationship.
Refusing a handshake is another cultural miscue; despite global trends, the handshake remains an integral part of German business etiquette.

A business meal in Germany is an exercise in courtesy, restraint, and precision. It is not about perfection, but about respect for time, culture, and the people at the table.
Those who are punctual, attentive, and composed send a powerful message: reliability, professionalism, and
cultural sensitivity – values that define success in the German business world.

© Bild Foto von Jay Wennington auf Unsplash