The culture of food and dining in the West is a little different from that in China. The proper western dinner at a fine restaurant is one of manners, focusing on conversation. One is expected to have knowledge of table manners such as what fork or knife to use as these are essential in western dining. The meal would consist of several courses including a soup or salad, an appetizer, the main dish, and a dessert. The atmosphere will be filled with light music that would only serve as background as people converse with each other. The decorations are usually sparse and are only meant to highlight the atmosphere that is being created by the music. In a western restaurant, each person generally orders their own food or dishes and eats what they order. One of the biggest differences between Chinese restaurants and western restaurants is the noise. Most western restaurants are quiet and people speak in quiet voices. Avoid shouting, especially to the staff. If you need service, you should try to attract the waiter’s attention with your eyes not your voice. It’s best not to raise your hand and wave at them either. Both Chinese and Western people love to drink with their food, especially wine or beer. The difference is that usually there will only be one or two toasts during the meal. It is not necessary to toast each time you pick up your glass. When the bill at the end of the meal comes, most people like to divide the bill equally by the number of people eating. This is called “going Dutch”. If the service and food have been good, you should leave a tip. Usually 10% of the bill is a good tip.