4 things you should never order in front of your boss or coworkers, according to an etiquette expert

When dining at a work event, it's best to avoid ordering the most expensive dish on the menu. This includes seasonal items, which can be more expensive out of season, or fancier meals such as steaks or lobster.

Grumet Humbert also said to err on the side of caution when you don't know the price of a special or market-priced dish.

Similarly, Grumet Humbert said it's best not to order a wide variety of items, as this will increase the bill.

That's why she suggests following the lead of the person hosting the get-together. For example, if they're ordering multiple courses, having more than just a salad is probably OK.

If the host is ordering one course, however, opting for multiple menu items can be impolite.

Alcohol can be tricky to navigate in professional settings. But whether you choose to drink or not, it's best to put your professional image first.

"When too much alcohol is consumed, you're not able to represent yourself in the best way," Grumet Humbert told BI. "It could lead to potential tricky conversations, perhaps showing yourself in a light that you don't want to in a professional realm."

It's also important to order something that will allow you to talk with your colleagues and doesn't feel difficult to eat.

For example, it's best to avoid anything that's too messy or requires a lot of effort to enjoy.

Instead, Grumet Humbert suggests ordering something you know you'll like that's also relatively simple to pick up. This way, the focus can remain on the conversation.

This story was originally published on May 27, 2025, and most recently updated on March 17, 2026.