Eating is something we all have in common, but table manners aren’t as common. I don’t believe that people strike out to be rude or uncouth, but it’s becoming more and more rare to learn table manners. It’s actually a fairly simple practice, as well. This post is going to focus on basic table manners that we all use every day.
While the previous posts have had a fair amount of info per point, these are to-the-point.
-Cut your your food one piece at a time (cut, eat, cut, eat, cut, eat, etc.)
-Chew with your mouth closed.
-Do not pick your teeth at the table. If you must, excuse yourself to the washroom.
-Do not reach across anyone’s plate; ask to be passed the item.
-Your beverage should be to the right of your plate (bread on the left).
– Do not place your elbows on the table while eating (though acceptable inbetween courses).
-Do not stab your food with your fork.
-And the classic tip- start on the outside of your utensils and work your way in.
Things to Remember When Eating Out
-If you need to remove something from your mouth, it leaves the same way it enters. If you used a fork to eat, use a fork to take it out. NEVER SPIT IT OUT INTO A NAPKIN.
-When you are finished eating, place your utensils with both handles at 4 o’clock.
-Do not push your plate away when you are finished, it is considered rude.
-If you drop a utensil, ask a waiter immediately to bring you a replacement (they will pick up the dropped utensil, not you).
-If a waiter tries to remove your plate before you are finished, feel free to simply say “I’m not finished yet!”.
-And for those that have a formal, plated dinner, here is your map:
Emily Post is the source, as usual!
What are your pet peeves for table manners? Are there points you think should be on the basic list?
Until tomorrow,
The Historian!
Burping! So gross
*shudders* Why does this still happen?? I understand that in other cultures it is not verboten (and can be a sign of respect). In Western culture, it is, and that is common knowledge 🙁