Realy ugly and arrogant people usually don't have to say a word to get the kind of treatment they deserve, not to mention the poison in the food!

The waiters in Paris are like those in most places: trying hard to make a decent living. They expect the same from you that you expect from them.

I'm sure if you are polite they will be also.

I had to laugh at this one. I remember the first time I went to the USA (New York) and I took a taxi from the airport to the hotel in Manhattan. I paid the taxi driver and gave him a tip according to the ones we usually give in Europe. I was so insulted in every way outloud in front of the hotel and the hotel doorman because the man was expecting me to give him the usually 10/15% tip which I didn't know at all!
Imagine if I took it that all american taxi drivers were rude and agressive!:)

We had fun at a cafe by Denfert Rochereau. A waiter exhorted my husband to &quot;speek franche!&quot; After a few pitiful attempts, the waiter exclaimed, &quot;ooh, your franche ees &quot;<i>terreeble</i>! He said everything in French then in English throughout the meal. As we left, he called out &quot;a bientot! that means 'see you later'..&quot;

We have found Paris restaurants, by and large, to be welcoming, friendly and polite. Waiters are extremely professional and some are somewhat businesslike but never rude in my experience. I think it helps to try a little French but always they are willing to help you with the menu if you have difficulty.