Should I bring my laptop to the dinner?

Absolutely not. Business dinners are for personal connection. Bringing a laptop implies you don't value the host's time.

Is it okay to drink alcohol?

Yes, but keep it moderate. Tequila or mezcal is often offered as a digestif at the end of the meal; declining is acceptable, but accepting a small pour is a gesture of camaraderie.

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Business dinners in Mexico City are long, relationship-focused affairs that rarely involve talking about work during the meal. Focus on building personal trust first; the business transaction will follow in later meetings.

Respect the timeline. Do not arrive on time. 'On time' for a dinner reservation at 8:30 PM means arriving at 8:45 PM or 8:50 PM. Punctuality for social dinners is considered a sign of being overeager or aggressive.
Master the art of the 'sobremesa'. This is the period after the meal when everyone stays at the table to talk. Never signal for the check until your host does; rushing the end of a meal is seen as rude.
Navigate the bill. The person who extended the invitation is expected to pay. Do not reach for the bill or suggest splitting it. If you are the host, have your credit card ready and pay discreetly, ideally away from the table if possible.
Hold the shop talk. Avoid discussing business until the main courses have been cleared. Start with personal topics: family, travel, or the city itself. Wait for your host to pivot to business.

Should I bring my laptop to the dinner?: Absolutely not. Business dinners are for personal connection. Bringing a laptop implies you don't value the host's time.
Is it okay to drink alcohol?: Yes, but keep it moderate. Tequila or mezcal is often offered as a digestif at the end of the meal; declining is acceptable, but accepting a small pour is a gesture of camaraderie.