In general, many restaurants should not mind if you order one meal and ask for an extra plate to share with your friend. This practice, known as "splitting" or "sharing," is relatively common and considered acceptable in many dining establishments.
However, it's essential to be mindful of a few factors to ensure a positive experience:
Restaurant policy: While sharing a meal is generally acceptable, some restaurants may have specific policies or charges related to sharing dishes. It's a good idea to ask your server if they allow sharing and if there are any additional fees associated with it.
Ordering additional sides: If you plan to share a dish, consider ordering additional sides or appetizers to complement the meal and ensure both you and your friend are satisfied.
Courtesy to the restaurant: Be respectful and considerate of the restaurant staff's time and effort. If you plan to share, communicate your intentions clearly when ordering, so the staff can accommodate your request appropriately.
Size of the meal: Some meals may not be suitable for sharing, either due to portion size or the complexity of the dish. If you're uncertain, you can ask your server for their recommendations.
Tipping: When splitting a meal, it's still essential to tip based on the total value of the meal before any sharing discounts or promotions. The servers' efforts and service should be acknowledged accordingly.
As long as you communicate your intentions politely and respect any restaurant policies, most establishments should be accommodating of your request to share a meal with your friend.