With globalization, the world has become a small place, resulting in all cultures and their cuisines readily available. However, there is a problem here and it is the etiquette at dinner.
No matter where you are from, there is a certain etiquette that every diner must follow, whether they are dining in a restaurant, a formal home party, a casual gathering or a restaurant, these are some of the few things that all diner should be aware of.
1. Respect the particular culture
If you are dining in a foreign country, it is imperative to know their respective gastronomic culture. Find out what the dos and don’ts are in there in terms of dining etiquette. For example, in India it is okay to eat with your fingers, but if you are in any western country it may not be acceptable.
2. Know your cutlery
When dining out, especially at a sit-down dinner, you need to consider your silverware, such as which fork or spoon is used first, along with the fact of which food will come from which side. Remember that solid food is placed on the left with liquid food or anything with curry is placed on the right. You should also know that the largest plate is your food plate, the medium plate is your salad plate, and the small plate is your bread plate. When dining at a sit-down dinner, remember to use the silverware from the outside to the inside.
3. Power label
Talking with your mouth full is considered bad etiquette. So refrain from doing it. Also eat in small bites, no matter how tiny the food particle is, cut into a smaller piece and eat it. Remember to chew with your mouth closed and chewing with your mouth open is considered rude. In case you feel like sneezing or coughing, cover your mouth and turn your face away from the table. And if there is something you want to spit, do it discreetly using a tissue and keeping it away from the eyes of the rest of the guests.
4. Drink label
Never blow your drinks hot. If your tea or coffee is hot, keep them on the table to cool enough for you to drink comfortably. Don’t make sucking sounds while drinking, as they are quite disgusting. Also, while consuming your soup, remember to fill your soup spoon halfway and move it away from your body, sipping it from the side of the spoon.
5 Watch your table manners
It’s imperative to brush up on table manners, whether it’s for a formal dinner or a casual dinner with the family. Never put your elbows on the table. In case you have to get up from the table, apologize, place your napkin to the left of your plate dirty side down, and then stand up. It is considered polite for the men sitting next to the lady to get up when she wants to leave the table and also when she returns. Also, do not try to reach across the table to take a food if you want something, ask the person closest to pass it to you. Use the words Please when making your request and thank you when the person has complied with your request.
6. Napkin tag
People often find themselves struggling with their napkins not knowing how to use them. As soon as you sit down, take the napkin, open it, and spread it across your lap. The napkin should open in the shape of a large triangle or rectangle. Don’t wipe your face with your napkin while eating your napkin is not the tissue. If you need to clean your mouth, ask for a tissue.
7. Show courtesy to waiters and butlers.
When dining out, show courtesy to the waiters and butlers. Show your upbringing. Remember when you were a child your mother used to tell you if you want to decipher someone’s true nature and then see how they behave around children, animals, the elderly, and people inferior to him in class, such as your driver or restaurant staff . Yes, you got the idea. Courteous and sophisticated is the key here. Remember to say please whenever you want something brought to your table and thank you once it has been brought or while the waiter is serving it. Also, in case you need anything, please raise your hand and if the waiter is around, let me know.
8. There are no personal problems while attending
Whatever you do, do not talk about your personal or even business affairs or problems while the waiter is serving you. You will have enough time to discuss when the food has been served so that you enjoy your dining experience.
This is a very basic etiquette that seems to be missing from rushed and mechanical life. Master these techniques to close that deal or to impress your future spouse.