Dining with other people really is never about the food. It is simply a time for social interaction with food present. Whether it is a business lunch, a romantic date, a wedding buffet or a party at someone's home displaying proper dining etiquette can go a long way in creating the right impression. During a meal with other people, remember to make the people the centre of your focus, not the food.
Here are my top 5 tips to make sure you are doing it right
1. PLACE SETTINGS may differ depending on the menu and the formality of the dining event. But here are a few basics that will be the same:
Remember BMW - Bread, Meal, Water (or wine) from Left to Right
Forks go on the left, knives and spoons on the right
Start from the outside & work your way inwards with the utensils
And remember - the correct place for your phone is "off the table" (on silent mode)
2. USING THE NAPKIN
Unfold your napkin and place it on your lap. It should stay there throughout your meal.
If you leave your place during the meal put the napkin on the chair. After the meal, fold it neatly on the left side of the plate (not on the plate, not crumpled up)
Remember, your napkin is to catch crumbs & gently dab the corners of your mouth if needed. Don't use it to spit in, wipe the table with or blow your nose.
3. EATING YOUR MEAL
Don't be greedy. wait for everyone to be served before your start eating
While eating, keep your elbows off the table. (They can come up in between courses)
Please don't slurp your liquids, don't chew noisily or with your mouth open & don't talk with your mouth full
No grooming at the table - no lipstick refresh, no hand sanitizer, no picking your teeth with a toothpick
Don't reach over to grab food, pass food from Left to Right & always pass the Salt & Pepper together
4. PAYING THE BILL
The host picks the tab, so if you invited people, you would be expected to pay.
If you're the guest, accept graciously & thank them for their generosity
As a guest can always offer to split the bill or pay the whole amount.
However please don't fight over the bill, it's awkward for everyone. There's always next time.
If you're paying, be discreet! Don't fuss with the check & don't let others know how much the meal cost.
5. TRYING TO CREATE A GOOD IMPRESSION
If someone else is paying don't order the most expensive dishes on the menu
Avoid ordering foods that you find difficult to eat like spaghetti
Learn to use a pair of chopsticks for oriental food- but don't brag about it
Try & keep the meal about the people, not about the food.
BONUS TIP - Put away your mobile phones, appreciate the company & enjoy the food!
Remember when dining with others - it's not what's on the plate but who's at the table that matters!
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