5 Things to know about Table Etiquette

Dining manners are integral in today's world. They show a sign of respect and politeness.

Whether it is Dining out for a business lunch, Special occasions or a Family get together. It is essential to follow good table manners as both the guest and the host need to feel comfortable dining together.

We have jotted down 5 basic things to know about table etiquette,

Let’s start with the basics :

Respond

Make sure to RSVP after you receive an invite, this will allow the host to make certain arrangements beforehand. Once you arrive, make sure to acknowledge everyone at the event. The host of the event will inform the guest where should they sit or place cards will be set.

Ensure to keep your Mobile phone on Silent and enjoy the Dining experience by following these basic table etiquette's :

Do place the napkin on your lap right after being seated.

Body language

As a dinner it is important to sit upright and not slouch at the table. Do not keep your elbow on the table while eating instead you can keep them on the table in between courses and also when eating isn’t taking place.

Use the 'Outside-in Rule'

Photo Credits : Etiquette Scholar

Silverware Place settings

Food served on a Flat plate is eaten with a Fork whereas; if it’s served in a bowl, using a spoon would be prompt. Left side is for the Forks and right side is for the spoon. The smaller Utensil on top with miniature version of spoon is for the desserts

Starting the meal

Before starting the meal, it is necessary to observe that everyone at the table has already been served.

In a Formal setting, waiting for a cue from the host and then starting the meal course is suitable. In an American Style,

Fork is in the dominant Hand but when you need to cut you can go ahead and switch it to the other hand. This is also called the ‘Zig -Zag’ method. This simply means using the dominant hand to cut with the help of the knife. Whereas, In Continental style there is no need of switching; Which makes it a more convenient style.

Once you are done with your meal, you can keep the knife on top of the plate with the blade of the knife facing downwards.

Don’t reach across the table to get salt instead politely ask someone to pass it.

Chewing and Talking

As Basic as it sounds people do this and it is sometimes seen as offensive.

Don’t Chew with your mouth open also make it a point to take smaller manageable bites when you already know you would need to be in conversation with your colleagues.

Ending the meal

Lastly, ending your meal would take place when the fork and spoon is placed in a diagonal manner giving the server a cue that you have ended your meal.

Not everyone gets offended if you don’t follow these guidelines, but when you start following these basic table manners it becomes very easy to keep up with them.

Hope you found these helpful,

Bon appetite!