Table Manners and Dining Etiquette | Important Tips 💡

Summary

This video script provides a detailed guide on dining etiquette, focusing on table manners, the proper use of utensils, and food presentation. It covers various aspects, such as how to use napkins, where to place utensils, and how to eat with grace. The speaker explains the importance of positioning oneself at the table, the right way to serve and pass food, and the proper handling of food waste like bones and scraps. Additionally, tips on managing the right posture and interaction at the dining table are offered, ensuring a pleasant and polished dining experience.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always place your napkin on your lap when sitting at the table.
• 😀 Place your feet flat on the floor and avoid putting them on the chair to maintain proper posture.
• 😀 Food should be served from the side of the plate, not from the center, to avoid accidental spills.
• 😀 When discarding bones or inedible parts, place them on the left side of your plate, and liquid waste like sauces or bones should go to the right.
• 😀 Use a fork or spoon to remove bones from your mouth, never your hands. This should be done discreetly.
• 😀 Bread should be broken into small pieces before eating, never torn with your hands in a large chunk.
• 😀 When serving or passing dishes, always ask those on your left if they would like to take some before passing it to the right.
• 😀 Always hold your glass by the stem, not the bowl, to avoid fingerprints and ensure a clean presentation.
• 😀 When eating with bread, keep it on the left side of your plate and avoid touching it with your eating hand.
• 😀 If you need to serve someone, present the drink or food properly by holding it from below, not by the rim or top of the glass.
• 😀 When eating rice, use your fingers carefully to form small, neat portions that can be pushed into your mouth without touching your lips.

Q & A

What is the importance of placing your feet correctly while sitting at the table?

It is important to place your feet flat on the floor, ideally under the table, to maintain a proper sitting posture and to avoid appearing disrespectful or uncomfortable while dining.

What should be done with a napkin when seated at the table?

You should first place the napkin on your lap as soon as you sit down. It's important not to place it on the table or leave it in your hand while eating.

How should food be served from a shared dish?

Food should be served from the side of the plate, not from the middle, and ideally from your side to avoid reaching across others. This makes the serving more hygienic and polite.

Where should discarded bones or other food waste be placed during a meal?

Discarded bones or food waste should be placed on the left side of the plate, at the top, to avoid any mix-up with the remaining food and to keep the table neat.

What is the proper way to eat food with a fork when a bone is present?

When a bone is in your mouth, use your fork to remove it gently. Never remove it with your hands as that would be considered improper etiquette.

What is the rule for passing food at the table?

When passing food, always pass it from your left to the right. First, ask the person on your left if they would like some, and then pass it to the right.

How should bread be placed on the table during a meal?

Bread should be placed on the left side of the plate, and when you pick it up, you should tear off a small piece to eat, never taking a large chunk at once.

What should you do when you need to break a roti or bread?

When breaking a roti or bread, you should use one hand to tear a small piece. This piece should not be large and should be manageable for eating.

What is the appropriate method for holding a glass when drinking during a meal?

You should always hold the glass by the stem, not the rim, to avoid leaving fingerprints. Additionally, avoid holding the glass by the base or pouring liquids directly from the glass without the use of a coaster.

How should food be served to guests during a meal?

When serving food to guests, always serve with care. If possible, use a tray to present the food, and ensure that the food is served with the appropriate utensils, not directly with your hands.