There are many doubts about etiquette that arise when you are invited to dinner at a fine dining restaurant or when you are called to an elegant party. So that you do not have to squeeze in these sophisticated environments and know how to behave, we have solved in this matter the 10 main doubts regarding the subject.
1 ? Can I sit where I want?
When you are guest at someone's house, wait for the person to give the signal to invite guests to the table. However, you don't have to run to get the place you want.
Calmly walk to the table and choose a non-end seat as these are reserved for the hosts. Try not to sit between couples, or families so as not to separate them, it may seem impolite.
2 ? Where should I place the fabric napkin?
The fabric napkin should be placed on your lap as soon as you sit at the table. To avoid lipstick stains on the cups and cloth napkins, carry tissues in the bag to remove excess lipstick before sitting at the table.
One more tip: Never put the napkin around your neck like a bib. Bibs are allowed for babies only.
3? How should I position myself at the table?
Stand in the chair with your back straight, without leaning over the table. Do not put your arms and elbows on the edge of the table, only the wrist may lightly touch the table.
4? When should I start eating?
Start eating when the host starts or invites, or when your table mates also start.
5? What is each silverware good for?
There is a specific cutlery for each type of dish and food, ie even for the entree there may be more than one possible cutlery for that meal. So that you don't have to memorize each one and not get confused, start the first meal with the nearest cutlery at your hand and farther from the plate.
For a basic understanding of the usefulness of each utensil that will be laid out on the table, check out the following illustration.
6? How should I handle cutlery?
The knife should be used in the right hand and the fork in the left. For foods that only need one cutlery, use it on the right hand. When cutting food, avoid chopping several pieces of meat or salad at one time. Cut them as you eat. Another important tip: When bringing food to your mouth, do not lean your body to the table. But yes, bring the silverware to your mouth.
7? What about cups and glasses?
In general, the most used glasses are those of wine and water. However, on special occasions you may notice the presence of the champagne glass at the table, it is tall and thin. Hold them by the rod, especially those of cold or fresh drinks. Before drinking in the glass, make sure your lips are free of leftover food and excess lipstick.
8? What should I do when I finish the meal?
To finish the meal, keep your plate where it is and never push it away saying it is satisfied or full. Leave the fork and knife together, side by side, diagonally on the plate? as in the next picture. The napkin should return to the side where it was, left side of the plate, without being folded.
9? Can I use a toothpick?
The toothpick should not be used under any circumstances. If, when you finish your meal, you notice that there may be something in your teeth or some piece of food that is bothering you, excuse yourself and remove it in the bathroom.
10? What to do if I drop or spill something?
Keep calm and apologize for what happened, especially if you hit someone. If the disaster is small, wipe it off with the napkin yourself. If the damage is severe, go to the bathroom or ask the waiter or housekeeper to provide you with a larger cleaning cloth. In the event of dropping cutlery, leave it on the floor and discreetly ask for less attention.
Table Manners 101: Basic Dining Etiquette (May 2024)
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