What are your guidelines for table manners and how important is dining etiquette to you and your family? Why do you consider it so important, or why is it not so important?
Response from:
Keep Smiling ., Council Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Using good table manners shows a respect for your fellow diners. Even in today's typically casual dining atmosphere, displaying good basic manners is necessary. Most of us have shared a meal with someone who made the experience unpleasant by exhibiting a lack of manners--you don't want to be that person!I would be very particular about the table manners. I insist the same thing with my family members also. The very common table manners that I can suggest are:
1. Don't speak with your mouth full of food.
2. Chew your food without any noise.
3. Keep your elbows off the table.
4. Excuse yourself when leaving the table
5. Don't forget to say please and thank you
There are many other important table manners that has to be remembered. To help you, here are few:
1.As soon as you are seated, place your dinner napkin on your lap. As you use it during your meal, return it to its place on your lap. At the end of the meal, place your soiled napkin next to your plate, but do not refold it.
2.When your place setting contains a number of utensils, the general rule of thumb is to use them in order, from the outside in. If your host or hostess has properly set the table, the flatware will be laid out to match up with each course served. Once you have used a utensil, never place it back on the table or tablecloth. As you finish each course, place the utensil on the plate or bowl, along the edge furthest from you.
3.Sit up straight and keep your elbows off of the table. It is not okay to lean back in your chair, slouch, or lean forward onto the table. While you should never place your elbows on the table, it is permissible to rest your wrists on the table edge between courses.
4. At meals that are served "family style," platters should be passed to the right, or counterclockwise.
5. Never chew with your mouth open or talk with food in your mouth. Take small bites so that you can swallow your food easily and maintain a pleasant dinner conversation.
6. Be sure to swallow your food before taking a sip of your drink.
7.When eating a salad, be sure to cut the lettuce and other vegetables into comfortable bite-sized servings. Never try to wrangle a large chunk of food into your mouth!
8. If soup is served, dip your spoon into the bowl moving away from you and then sip (not slurp!) the soup from the spoon. As the bowl nears empty, it is alright to tip it a bit away from you to get the last few spoonfuls. Never pick up your soup bowl and "drink" the remainder.
9.When eating a bread roll, tear off a bite at a time rather than biting into the whole roll. If you choose to butter your bread, place a small pat or two on your bread plate and then butter each individual bite-sized piece. Do not dip your bread into gravy or other sauces.
10.Very few foods should be eaten with your fingers. When in doubt, use your utensils or follow the lead of your hostess.
11.If you need something that is out of your reach (the salt shaker, for instance), politely ask someone to pass it to you. Never lean across the table to grab something.
12.If you drop your napkin or a utensil during your meal, lean over to pick it up only if it is within easy reach. If not, leave it be. For formal dinners, always leave it and ask the server to bring you a fresh one.
13.Remain seated throughout the entire meal, unless you have an emergency or become ill. If you must leave the table, be sure to excuse yourself.
14.Always turn off pagers and cellular phones during a meal. If you must leave your phone on because of the potential for a work or personal emergency, be sure to excuse yourself from the table before taking a call.
15.If you are dining in someone's home, do not sit down until your hosts do, unless they request that you do so. Never begin eating until all guests are seated and the host begins his meal.
16.If you get something stuck in your teeth, do not try to remove it at the table. If it is bothersome, you may excuse yourself to the washroom to remove the offending item.
17.Never do any personal grooming at the table. If you need to straighten your hair or freshen your lipstick, do so after the meal in the privacy of the restroom.
18.If you are a guest in someone's home and they choose to pray before a meal, you have two choices. Either bow your head and join in or remain quietly seated until they are finished.
19.Try to be open-minded about trying new foods, especially when dining in someone's home. Your hosts went to considerable effort to present you with a pleasurable dining experience; do not offend them by refusing their offerings. If you have a food allergy that would prevent you from trying something, politely explain. You can say, "It looks delicious, but unfortunately I am allergic to strawberries."
20.Compliment the cook. Be sure to thank your host or hostess for your meal and offer a sincere compliment on the meal. Even if you didn't particularly enjoy the food, you can certainly come up with something nice to say!
Look for the good. Instead of pointing out all the things your child does wrong, point out what she does right. Say, "I was so proud of you when we went to the Joneses for dinner. It was wonderful the way you served yourself when the platter passed by."
Don't turn dinner into an unpleasant "lecture time." That will turn kids off not only to manners, but to dinner, and to you, too.
Check your own example. Don't show up for dinner in just your underwear unless you want your kids to do the same.
Don't label your child as a slob. Instead, point out the behavior in a neutral, practical way. For example: "It's a good idea to unfold your napkin so if food falls you won't stain your clothes."
Approach manners as a game. One night a week, try to have a somewhat more formal dinner. Try dressing up, serve a special meal, and expect more formal manners. That will help improve your kids' social graces.
Let kids know that a manners offense doesn't exist if there's nobody there to see it. If you eat mashed potatoes with your fingers, and you're alone, or with a friend who has agreed to suspend that manner, it's not a violation.
Make kids part of the tradition. Invite guests over and let kids help serve hors d'oeuvres. This helps them indirectly learn about the manners that surround eating.
If you hear a burp, explain that in some cultures burping is a way of showing your appreciation, but here in America it's considered rude. If you were to do that in someone else's house, he might think you're a slob and may not want you to come back.
Hope these tips can help us to learn how to teach good table manners to kids.
Response from:
mrs.ram s, Council Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
hi,
Table Manners
Most families have established their own table manners that are important to them. Here are a few that should be remembered when you are at home and when you are a guest
Never reach for any food that is not right in front of you. Ask someone to pass it. And if you are passing something, don't help yourself along the way. If your food is too hot, wait for it to cool. Don't blow on it. If you put something in your mouth that's too hot, don't spit it out. Reach for your water and take a quick swallow. Don't talk with your mouth full. Bring your food up to your mouth rather than bending over to reach it. There are a few additional rules for eating in a restaurant: Don't be upset if you spill something. It happens all the time. The waiter will clean it up. Don't pick up your silverware if you drop it on the floor. Ask the waiter to replace it for you. Don't put packages or handbags on the table. Don't comb your hair at the table. Don't use a toothpick in public.
The host hostess of a dinner party should be the last one served. If the meal is getting cold, the host/hostess may state something to the effect, "Please begin while the food is still warm".
1)At a formal dinner party,When entertaining formally, dishes are presented or served at guest's left and removed from the right side. Glasses are filled from the right. 2)What is the proper etiquette when the woman excuses herself and returns? Answer: In a social setting, it is always appropriate for a male to stand when a female is taking her leave. However, in a business setting, it is not always necessary for a male to rise whenever his female coworker(s) leave the table 3).Should you dismiss yourself from the table if you need to sneeze or blow your nose?
A. Yes, excuse yourself from the table, and at no time should you use your napkin as a handkerchief.
dining etiquette Dining Etiquette Tips: With the kind of culture that exists today, dining etiquette is almost a thing of the past. You can use some of these dining etiquette tips to present yourself in an effective manner to the people around you.
It may sound old fashioned to some but remember that men have to be a little ahead of the women when they are going towards the dining table. They should stand till the host or the hostess finishes the announcements and sits down.
The napkin is another important part about dining etiquette and I have often seen people struggling with the same. Unfold the napkin only when everyone is seated at the dining table and place it on the lap. This has to be unfolded either in the shape of a large triangle or in the shape of a rectangle. Your napkin is not a substitute for tissue; you can always ask for a separate tissue paper if you feel the need to do so.
Talking with food in your mouth is the first mistake you would commit at the dining table. Dining etiquette needs to be maintained as talking too much at dinnertime can be a real turn off for many.
When you are at the dining table, you must know the order of the food and the crockery that is placed to be able to maintain the dining etiquette. Solid food is always placed on the left and any form of liquid is placed on the right. The largest plate is the dinner plate, a medium sized plate would be your salad plate and a small sized plate would be your bread plate. The glass of wine or water will be placed on the right side. Begin using the spoons and forks from the outside area and towards the inside of the plate.
Use the knife to butter the bread. Take some amount of butter in your plate and use the butter knife to spread the butter.
When soup is served to you, it may at times be really too hot to be consumed. Even then, blowing on the hot soup is not the right kind of dining etiquette one would expect from a professional!
Sometimes the salad may contain huge leaves that may be a little cumbersome to eat. In that case use your salad fork to cut them into smaller pieces.
Order something that is easy to eat if you wish to avoid drawing attention to yourself! This will be particularly helpful if your employer gives the dinner party.
Always remember to maintain a correct posture at the dining table. Remember one important thing about dining etiquette; do not rush to grab food in front of a person.
If you notice that some wine has also been served then pick up the glass by holding the stem of the glass. You need to use your thumb and the first two fingers for this.
When you use the knife to cut small pieces of food, cut only 2 to 3 pieces at a time. Eat only few pieces at a time as well.
When it’s time to use the finger bowl, dip the fingers of only one hand at first. Use the napkin on your lap to dry them.
Dining etiquette is not really as difficult as it may seem to be. You may find it difficult to adjust in the beginning but remember that all it takes is a little bit of thinking and consideration from your side to be able to present yourself in the best manner possible.
and yes these table manners are so important in our daily lives even
I think that manners are pretty important when you are trying to impress or with the 'older' generation. When you are just with your family though you don't have to be on your best behaviour at all times....but please and thank you are important
these are the table manners that matter...even at home
Response from:
Aruna D, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Table Manners play an important role in making a favourable impression from the Manners set for every aspect of social existence. They are visible signals of our behaviour and upbringing and therefore essential to professional as well as personal success. How to Behave at the Dining Table: 1.Posture: Sit up straight at the table, never lean backward, nor forward and also never let the elbows touch the table. This makes a good impression. When you are not eating, keep your hands on your lap or rest on the table. 2."Please" and "Thank you": Say "Please" when asking people to pass you something and "Thank you" when you receive something. These are basic table manners. 3.Napkin: The best way to use a napkin is to place it on your lap, to catch crumbs or drips while eating food and should be kept back on the table neatly, after the meal is finished. 4.Hosts: Generally the head of the family or the host passes the meal down to the family, mostly done in counter clockwise movement around the table. 5.Fork and Knife: It is best to order foods that can be eaten with a knife and a fork. Finger foods can be messy and are best left for informal dining. 6.Slow and Quiet: Chew small morsels food and swallow with the mouth closed. The only way to eat is slowly and quietly. 7.Tablecloth: Remember that the tablecloth should be kept clean. Do not put bones or any other morsels on the table. 8.Spitting: If there is something in the mouth, which can't be swallowed, quietly put it in a paper napkin and then continue. (E.g. bones, seeds, curry leaves, etc.). Avoid spitting anything out. 9.End the meal properly. When a person has finished eating, the fork and the knife are placed diagonally crossed across the plate, this is the best way to inform the server that you have finished eating. 10.Appreciation: After finishing your meal, express appreciation for the meal. You can perhaps say Thank you so much; It was a very tasty meal. And then wait for all to finish before leaving the table. 11.Smoking: None should smoke while seated for the meal. 12.Wait for others to start eating. 13.One should avoid touching nose, teeth and combing hair while dinning.
Our social activities increasingly revolve around dinners and parties, and table etiquette and manners play an important part in creating a favorable impression on both new found and old friends alike.
Here are some more table etiquette tips to guide you.
Napkin Use
Wait for the host to unfold his napkin before you do. Remove and unfold the napkin from your table setting and place it across your lap. In some very formal restaurants, the waiter may do this for the guests.
The napkin will rest on the lap till the end of the meal and be used to gently dab or wipe your mouth when needed. If you need to leave the table, loosely fold and place the napkin neatly on the left or right of your plate. You may hang the napkin over the back of your chair, do not place it on the seat of your chair.
At the end of the meal, place the napkin semi-folded on the table to the left side of the setting.
Table Settings
Any food dishes placed on the left and glassware on the right are yours. As the meal progresses, use the silverware from outside in.
Rest the fork and knife on the side of your plate when you have not finished your meal, do not rest it on the table. This placement is a signal to the waiter not to remove your plate.
Do not push the plate away from you after finishing your meal. Instead place both the fork and knife beside each other on the plate with the handles resting at 5 o’clock of your plate and tips pointing to 11 o’clock of your plate.
General Dining Etiquette Tips
Arrive at least 10 minutes early before the actual invited time. Always say “please”” if you are asking for something and say “thank you” to the waiter after they remove your dishes.
If someone asks for salt or pepper, pass both together.
Dishes are passed from left to right. When a waiter serves you, food will be presented on your left, and removed from your right after you have finished.
It is impolite to turn the glass upside down to decline wine. If you are asked about wine and will not be drinking, decline quietly and politely. Otherwise, you may hold your hand over the wine glass to signal that you do not want any wine to be served.
Always taste your food before adding any seasoning onto it. It is considered rude to the chef if you season it before tasting the food.
Cut enough food only for the next mouthful. Eat slowly in small bites. Do not talk when your mouth is full.
Do not put your elbows on the table. Place your hands on your lap or rest your wrists on the edge of the table if not eating.
Do not apply makeup at the table.
Excuse yourself from the table if you want to do so.
Try to pace your meal to finish at the same time as your host or with the of the majority of the group at the table.
Butter or dips are to be transferred from the serving plate to your plate first before eating.
Dip the spoon into the soup and scoop from the centre of the bowl to the edge, moving away from you.
Response from:
Kiran Bala, Council Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Table manners definitely don't come naturally. Pople either gobble their food or push it around or off their plates. They don't eat with their fingers, they eat with their hands - often both. They put their elbows on the table, chew noisily with their mouths wide open displaying the contents of their mouths for the entire world to see. They speak with their mouths full, often spraying the person next to them with little bits of food when trying to make a point. Some areanti-social at mealtimes, burying themselves behind a book or silently staring at the television, ignoring all attempts at conversation. Some go to the other extreme, choosing mealtimes as a battleground for wars with their siblings so that nobody else can get a word in edgeways.
Table manners definitely don't come to children naturally. They either gobble their food or push it around or off their plates. They don't eat with their fingers, they eat with their hands - often both. They put their elbows on the table, chew noisily with their mouths wide open displaying the contents of their mouths for the entire world to see. They speak with their mouths full, often spraying the person next to them with little bits of food when trying to make a point. Some children are anti-social at mealtimes, burying themselves behind a book or silently staring at the television, ignoring all attempts at conversation. Some go to the other extreme, choosing mealtimes as a battleground for wars with their siblings so that nobody else can get a word in edgeways. Boys especially think a good loud burp at the end of a meal signals their satisfaction and are surprised when you take offence. Parents often despair attempting to convert these barbarians into well-mannered members of society. Some important points about table manners
* Don't chew noisily or with your mouth open. * The idea is to eat with your fingers, not with your hand and definitely not with both hands. * Put the napkin on your lap so that food doesn't get onto your clothes. * Don't read or watch television while eating. Mealtimes should be a chance for the family to sit together and catch up on what's happening in each other's lives. * If you need to leave the table, excuse yourself before going. Do not announce loudly that you have to go to the bathroom. * Wait till everyone has finished eating before getting up from the table. * Burping is not considered polite. * Don't talk with your mouth full. * Don't gobble your food. Take small bites and chew properly. * Don't play with your food and finish everything that is on your plate. * Use the words "please" and "thank you" when passing dishes to each other.
* Don't chew noisily or with your mouth open. * The idea is to eat with your fingers, not with your hand and definitely not with both hands. * Put the napkin on your lap so that food doesn't get onto your clothes. * Don't read or watch television while eating. Mealtimes should be a chance for the family to sit together and catch up on what's happening in each other's lives. * If you need to leave the table, excuse yourself before going. Do not announce loudly that you have to go to the bathroom. * Wait till everyone has finished eating before getting up from the table. * Burping is not considered polite. * Don't talk with your mouth full. * Don't gobble your food. Take small bites and chew properly. * Don't play with your food and finish everything that is on your plate. * Use the words "please" and "thank you" when passing dishes to each other.
Response from:
Shreya G, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Table manners, dining etiquette are terms which we have borrowed from British culture. In India, we had altogether a different set of rules for dining, which quite differ from these so called table manners in today's society. Well, HOME means where you are most comfortable and you live the way you want to. At the same time, we all need to provide enough freedom to our family members to live the way they like at home. So, in my opinion, table manners and dining etiquettes are not very important at home. But yes, when its about dining outside or at somebody else's place, these surely come into picture as then we have no right to make others uncomfortable by our habits : P
These things are important only to the extent of everybody feeling comfortable with the rules. In no way should these be encouraged or forced if doing so hinders the peace and love of our home. The advantages of learning dining etiquettes are as follows:
1. When we go out for dining, we do not feel odd one out. 2. People dining along with us do not feel ashamed of being with us. 3. We dont end up creating a mess at the table and leave the table in good condition. 4. We feel confident about ourselves!
Disadvantages:
1. Some people may not be comfortable with dining etiquettes and will find it tough to dine with us. 2. We become rigid about these things so much that we tend to comment on people who dont follow these, or we tend to stare at those who dont follow, making them uncomfortable. 3. The etiquette consciousness does not let us enjoy the meal to the full. 4. Kids who are yet to learn these etiquettes, find it hard to eat when they see such conscious people around them, and feel frustrated.
Some basic table manners/dining etiquettes absolutely needed in my opinion include: 1. Trying to keep the table clean, not dropping foodstuff around. 2. Eating patiently, not in a hurry of just finishing up the food. 3. Using napkins so as to not spoil our clothes and irritate others. 4. Making less noise with use of cutlery, thus not disturbing others at the table. 5. Not speaking much as some people would not be comfortable answering or engaging in conversations while dining. 6. Not throwing any wastes outside the plate or dumping into glasses, etc. 7. If by mistake, we drop some foodstuff on the table, one should pick it up and keep in one's own plate, so that it does not look dirty to others dining along.
Till we are not irritating others on the table by any means, dining etiquettes are not that strictly necessary. But yes, when in public it is good to follow them for the sake of others. One need not be strict about these at home, though. This is my idea of dinner etiquettes and table manners!!!
Response from:
My Advice, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
hello,
First of all i am very happy to answer this question because many doesn't have even the common rules to be followed on the dinning table. At-least now i got a chance to tell people some rules on this particular topic. I don't mean that people do not have table manners but, what i want to tell is some of them need to be educated regarding table manners.
The table manners is an important thing to be known for everyone as we are in a society which has its moral values. We need to tell the person if his action is deniable by others i.e., rather than insulting them we need to support him by educating regarding common values of life.
There are certain things that people usually commit on table. They are sitting posture, showing greediness, chewing the food with making sounds, drinking with gulping sounds, talking with mouth full of food, etc.
Some guidelines can make our presence more attractive. I give some of them here.
1. Have your position on seat quietly and in a pleasantful manner. 2. Start the intake of food after everything is served. 3. Once you have started eating do not have a chat in between unless and until it is necessary. 4. Eat the food without making any noise which cause a big disturbance in someone's mind. 5. Do not eat the food very quickly , take sufficient gap between intakes. 6. Never drink water between meals. 7. Make sure that you establish the style which is more pleasantful. 8. After having meals , do not start moving from table immediately. Let all the members at the table finish their meals. 9. Do not move the chair making noise. It would be better if you move very quietly from the table.
So, these are some of my suggestions for the table manners.....
Basic dining etiquette never goes out of style. However, given the importance of electronic communication, cell phones and other electronic devices need to be mentioned when discussing table manners.
1. Electronic devices. Turn off or silence all electronic devices before entering the restaurant. If you forgot to turn off your cell phone, and it rings, immediately turn it off. Do not answer the call.
2. Napkin. Place the napkin on your lap after being seated. As needed, use it to gently wipe or dab your mouth. Before drinking from a glass, dab your mouth. During a restroom break, place the napkin to the left of the plate. At the end of the meal, the napkin is placed neatly to the right of the plate (not refolded, but not crumpled either).
3. Wait until everyone is served before eating. If you are a guest, wait for the host to begin.
4. Utensils. If unsure which utensil to use, remember "outside in." The outer most utensil is used first. Once used, the utensil does not go back on the table, but is placed on the plate. When finished, the knife and fork are place side by side (parallel) on the plate with handles at the 4 o'clock position. Soup spoons are placed on bowl's service plate when finished; teaspoons placed on the saucer.
5. Bread or rolls: Place your bread and some butter on the bread plate. Break off a bite-size piece of bread before buttering.
6. Sit up straight, do not hunch over your plate.
7. Hands. You can place your wrists or forearms on the table, or hands on your lap.
8. Legs. Keep legs next to your chair. Do not stretch legs out or cross your legs as they may bump others under the table.
9. Chew with your mouth closed. Do not overfill your mouth with food. Wait several seconds before taking the next bite.
10. Removing items from your mouth. If you need to remove gristle, bone, or an olive pit from your mouth, then remove it the way it had entered (i.e. fork or fingers), and place it discreetly on your plate.
11. Avoid uncouth conduct such as talking with mouth full, burping, nose blowing, picking at teeth, grooming or putting on makeup at the table. Instead, excuse yourself from the table and go to the restroom.
12. Courtesy. Always say thank you when served something.
13. Relax, dine slowly, and enjoy the meal and your company.
Suggestions for dining etiquette for kids (never too early to start):
Tell your kids that table manners are more than about proper eating, it's about being kind and considerate of others. Also, tell them although you know that they are smart and nice, other people will judge them on how they appear. Having proper table manners is one way people judge others, and they wouldn't want people to think that they're yahoo's, do they?
Whether in a restaurant or in a home, here are some basic table manners to teach kids:
1. Eat with a fork unless the food is meant to be eaten with fingers. Only babies eat with fingers.
2. Don't stuff your mouth full of food, it looks gross, and they could choke.
3. Chew with your mouth closed. No one wants to be grossed out seeing food being chewed up or hearing it being chomped on. This includes no talking with your mouth full.
4. Don't make any rude comments about any food being served. It will hurt someone's feelings.
5. Always say thank you when served something. Shows appreciation.
6. If the meal is not buffet style, then wait until everyone is served before eating. It shows consideration.
7. Eat slowly, don't gobble up the food. Someone took a long time to prepare the food, enjoy it slowly. Slowly means to wait about 5 seconds after swallowing before getting another forkful.
8. When eating rolls, break off a piece of bread before buttering. Eating a whole piece of bread looks tacky.
9. Don't reach over someone's plate for something, ask for the item to be passed to you. Shows consideration.
10. Do not pick anything out of your teeth, it's gross. If it bothers you that bad, excuse yourself and go to the restroom to pick.
11. Always use a napkin to dab your mouth, which should be on your lap when not in use. Remember, dab your mouth only. Do not wipe your face or blow your nose with a napkin, both are gross. Excuse yourself from the table and go the restroom to do those things.
12. When eating at someone's home or a guest of someone at a restaurant, always thank the host and tell them how delicious it was, even if it wasn't. Again, someone took time, energy, and expense to prepare the food, show your appreciation.
Response from:
Sneha Rao, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Table manners are very important to be cultivated in every person, right from the childhood. Children have a habit to immitate their parents and the elders who they see around them so we should make sure that we ourselves follow them so as to make our kids aware of these from the beginning.
Following are general guidelines to be followed as a part of table manners:
1. One should arrange the dishes and spoon, fork etc well on the table.
2. Dishes should preferably be kept on mats. Even for hot serving bowls, we should use bowls.
3. We should not talk while eating.
4. We should avoid making noise with our spoons.
5. We should use a hand napkin while dining to wipe our halds if required.
6. We should take care that food doesn't spill on the table or floor while we are eating.
7. Bowls, while not in use, should be kept covered.
8. We should eat slowly and avoid attending to phone calls or even getting up from the table till everyone on the table finishes his dining.
9. We should preferably not keep infants dining on the same table. It becomes uncomfortable for them and even for others. Special side tables or child tables can be used for them.
10. If eating in a restaurant, we should not argue or behave badly with the waiters and other hotel staff.
11. We should not over insist on others to have more.
Response from:
Rahul Gupta, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Table manners are the etiquette used when eating. This includes the appropriate use of utensils. Different cultures have different standards for table manners. Many table manners evolved out of practicality. For example, it is generally impolite to put elbows on tables since doing so creates a risk of tipping over bowls and cups. Within different families or groups, there may be less rigorous enforcement of some traditional table manners of their culture while still maintaining others. For example, some families ignore elbows on the table or mixing of foods.
Indian table manners
* Wait for the host or the eldest person to start first. * You should maintain silence while eating food. You are not expected to chat unnecessarily with the people around the table. * It is acceptable not to use cutlery for eating, as many foods - such as Indian breads and curry - are best enjoyed when eating with the hand. * Wash hands thoroughly before sitting at the table as some Indian foods are primarily eaten by hand. Also, wash hands after eating the food. Usually, a finger bowl (with luke warm water and lemon) is served per person for rinsing fingers. * In North India, when eating curry, the gravy must not be allowed to stain the fingers --only the fingertips are used. However, in South India, it is acceptable to use more of your hand. * When flatbreads such as chapati, roti, or naan are served with the meal, it is acceptable and expected to use pieces of them to gather food and sop-up gravies and curries. * The cardinal rule of dining is to always use the right hand when eating or receiving food and never the left. Even a piece from the bread is broken using the right hand alone. * It is considered inappropriate to use your fingers to share food from someone else's plate once you have started using your own. Instead, ask for a clean spoon to transfer the food to your plate from the common dish. * When eating with hands, always eat with right, as mentioned above. However, use only the other clean hand to transfer food from a common dish on the table. * It is not necessary to taste each and every dish prepared; but you must finish everything on the plate as it is considered a respect for served food. For that reason, take only as much food on the plate you can finish.
Why table manners are important ?
Manners are important in society. They help us to be civil to one another. Because a person who minds their manners knows how to act in every circumstance he tends to feel comfortable in unfamiliar surroundings.
Nowhere are manners more important that at the table. Table manners prevent diners from being sloppy, offensive and boorish. They help to communicate respect to hosts and guests alike. Table manners are not hard and fast rules, rather they are helpful guidelines in our social relationships.
Table manners is an important value to instill in all family members. The family meal. One of the great traditions of our culture that is being swept away by the McDonald’s drive-through and widescreen TVs. But in our family, this tradition is alive and well, mostly because we don’t have a widescreen TV and the closest McDonald’s is twenty minutes away.
I think that the best part of the family dinner is that it provides an ideal time for Art and I to instill good table manners in our darling little offspring. Such important social skills as which fork to use (yours, not Daddy’s or the one you found under the couch), how to hold your cup (right side up is the preferred method), and how to carry on a pleasant dinner conversation (no potty stories is a good start) are easily taught while sharing a delightful meal around the dining room table.
Response from:
later later, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Hello, In my opinion:
From the tender age of child will be very easily adapatable and accomodative. As elders we are setting an environment so that children will learn. By setting the guidelines and rules children will learn how to interact with one another. In order to acehive that we have to set an right example/model so that children will follow.
Any basic education/role modelling starts from every home. Family plays a vital role in bring up the kids. Nurture & nourishment takes place in the hands of parents. Children will look after the parents as role models and try to mirror them.
Table manners is one of them. Basically we are teaching the kids how to interact with the people. Similarly what behaviour is acceptable/not. Certain gound rules will apply in order to maintain cordial relations among the people.
Teach a child what is acceptable behaviour and what is not.Bascially we are teaching the kids, how to interact with the people. To maintain a cordial relationshiop we should follow the rules which is universally acceptable . These are all interpersonal relationship skills.
Here are some good table manners that I teach my children to follow.It is very important to follow these table manners. Chew with your mouth closed. Do not talk with food in your mouth. Do not talk at an excessively loud volume. Refrain from coughing, sneezing or blowing nose at the table. Never tilt back your chair while at the table. Sit in a relaxed and comfortable position, but do not "slouch." Do not "play with" your food, or with your table utensils. Do not make loud or unusual noises while eating. Do not single out, chastise or tell someone who has shown poor table manners. It is generally acceptable to rest your fore-arms on the table, though you should take care to never rest your elbows on the table. Always ask the host or hostess to be excused before leaving the table. Do not stare at anyone while he or she is eating. It is considered rude. Never talk on your phone or text a friend at the table. If an urgent matter arises, ask host or hostess to be excused, and step away from the table. Do not slurp your food or eat loudly. Burping or sneezing at the table should be avoided. If you must do so, you may request that your action be excused. Excessive flatulence is generally frowned upon Never tell people what to do other than someone who is responsible for other people at the table. Men should not wear a hat at the dinner table. Chew with your mouth closed. Do not talk with food in your mouth. Do not talk at an excessively loud volume. Refrain from coughing, sneezing or blowing nose at the table. Never tilt back your chair while at the table. Sit in a relaxed and comfortable position, but do not "slouch." Do not "play with" your food, or with your table utensils. Do not make loud or unusual noises while eating. Do not single out, chastise or tell someone who has shown poor table manners. It is generally acceptable to rest your fore-arms on the table, though you should take care to never rest your elbows on the table. Always ask the host or hostess to be excused before leaving the table. Do not stare at anyone while he or she is eating. It is considered rude. Never talk on your phone or text a friend at the table. If an urgent matter arises, ask host or hostess to be excused, and step away from the table. Do not slurp your food or eat loudly. Burping or sneezing at the table should be avoided. If you must do so, you may request that your action be excused. Excessive flatulence is generally frowned upon Never tell people what to do other than someone who is responsible for other people at the table. Men should not wear a hat at the dinner table.
Response from:
Swati Gupta, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
How to Behave at the Dining Table
1. Posture: Sit up straight at the table, never lean backward, nor forward and also never let the elbows touch the table. This makes a good impression. When you are not eating, keep your hands on your lap or rest on the table.
2. "Please" and "Thank you": Say "Please" when asking people to pass you something and "Thank you" when you receive something. These are basic table manners.
3. Napkin: The best way to use a napkin is to place it on your lap, to catch crumbs or drips while eating food and should be kept back on the table neatly, after the meal is finished.
4. Hosts: Generally the head of the family or the host passes the meal down to the family, mostly done in counter clockwise movement around the table.
5. Fork and Knife: It is best to order foods that can be eaten with a knife and a fork. Finger foods can be messy and are best left for informal dining.
6. Slow and Quiet: Chew small morsels food and swallow with the mouth closed. The only way to eat is slowly and quietly.
7. Tablecloth: Remember that the tablecloth should be kept clean. Do not put bones or any other morsels on the table.
8. Spitting: If there is something in the mouth, which can't be swallowed, quietly put it in a paper napkin and then continue. (E.g. bones, seeds, curry leaves, etc.). Avoid spitting anything out.
Etiquettes
9. End the meal properly. When a person has finished eating, the fork and the knife are placed diagonally crossed across the plate, this is the best way to inform the server that you have finished eating.
10. Appreciation: After finishing your meal, express appreciation for the meal. You can perhaps say Thank you so much; It was a very tasty meal. And then wait for all to finish before leaving the table.
11. Smoking: None should smoke while seated for the meal.
12. Wait for others to start eating.
13. One should avoid touching nose, teeth and combing hair while dinning.
These are the basic things to follow when u are going to have an Indian dinner. This is the style of Indians. These instructions are normally given to foreigners when they wish to eat Indian food in Indian style.
Instructions
Step 1 :
Wash your hands. A common show of proper table manners in the United States, it is imperative in India where fingers are eating utensils.
Step 2 :
Tear your bread into pieces and wrap it around other foods. Rip Indian breads such as nans, parathas, bhakris and rotis, into narrow strips with your fingers, pile other foods on them, and wrap and dip them in curry sauce.
Step 3:
Flex that thumb. Recommended by travel gurus, a helpful technique for eating all those Indian rice dishes is to utilize the thumb to scoop the food onto your fingers. Practice by placing your thumb beside the rice and twisting your wrist while pushing the rice onto your fingers, holding them together and flat.
Step 4:
Throw your plate away. In some areas of India, banana leaves serve as plates. They are large and in rural areas, torn into plate-sized pieces with ragged edges. In Indian restaurants, rectangular-cut leaves hold a diner's meal.
Step 5:
Shove your left hand in your lap. Sit on it if you have to and keep it there. In India it is considered unsanitary to eat (or shake hands) with one's left hand, which is reserved for "toilet" activities. Use your right hand for all your eating.
Step 6:
Lick your fingers when you're done. In India, this is a proper table manner. There's nothing better than finishing off a great meal by licking all the curry sauce from your fingers.
Response from:
Nisha Danny, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Hello, Good table manners are important at home as that is from where our children pick up the do's and don'ts to behave in public. We do not want our family to be in an embarrasing situation any where outside.
Most important rules are: Be at the table when asked. Everyone should be the table at the same time. Say you are sorry if you are unable to do it by any reason.
Be a Roman in Rome. It is better to follow the rules of the place. If you are used to eating with hands, do it only if others around are comfortable doing so. Use spoon and fork when everyone around you uses one.
Take food in moderate quantities. Make sure everyone around you also has moderate quantity of food.
Place the spoon set just to right of the plate. Place it comfortably on a tisssue and avoid making noises with it.
Use napkins and spread it on the lap to avoid spills spoiling your dress.
Do not talk with food in the mouth. Talk only things that are interesting for people around you.
Avoid making noises while chewing food.
Leave the table with everyone. Not as soon as one has finished eating.
Last but not the least, do not waste food. Take only what you would eat. Order food in moderate quantities. Best wishes.
Response from:
kellie ingram, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Here are my table rules..1) Sit up at the table as opposed to lying or swaying...etc. 2) No talking with food in your mouth. 3) Please and Thank you..(an always rule really) 4) Must at least try everything on your plate 5) If you don't like something, just put it aside as opposed to making a scene or foul noises ect. 6) Must wait until everyone is done to move on to either the next course or to leave the table. 7)Never reach over someone or their stuff to get something, that is when you use your words. 8) Inside voices. 9)Use appropriate utensils for the situation. 10)No kicking the table. 11)No taking food off of other's plates. 12) Ask to be excused to burp or do other unsavoury things. 13) Stop eating when you are full. 14) Every meal DOES NOT include dessert.
I could probably go on...these are the basics for my household. The importance of not only eating together but doing so with manners and respect, foster life lasting good habits. I know that with the "table training" I gave my kids, they will be able to mix and mingle in any company at any venue...they are prepared. Sometimes, as the kids get older, meal times are the only times you get to have everyone in the same place at the same time. That is when quality instead of quantity time spent together comes in. I also believe that table manners can be the foundation for good manners (respect)throughout a person's life even outside of the dining room.
The host and hostess (giving the dinner) generally sit at each end of the table. In some cases if there are grandparents or great grandparents and depending on the culture they will sit at each end of the table.
If the dinner is fancy and there will be soup, salad and a main course then the table should be set with dinner plate on bottom, salad plate on top of that and the soup bowl on top of the salad plate. Cutlery to each side of the plate with a napkin (sometimes people will put the napkin in the wine glass.)
Don't start to eat until everyone is seated. Some people may say a prayer of thanks before eating and if you are a non believer at least bow your head. Don't simply just 'dig into the food!' The host and hostess are the ones that should pick up their knife and fork first to eat and everyone else follows suit.
Place your napkin on your lap and DON'T tuck it into the top of your dress, blouse or shirt.
If it's a fancy dinner then work from the outside in. Soup may be served first, then a salad and then the main course. When eating soup you cup the soup spoon (hollow side) away from you and scoop the soup up that way. No slurping! Then the smaller fork is used for the salad (and even perhaps a smaller knife depending on the salad.) The smaller knife is a 'butter knife' and can be used if buns are served. If the table is set properly there should be a separate plate for your bun. If there is no plate for the bun then putting the bun on your dinner plate is acceptable.
If wine is served it's usually served from the right or, if it's a simple family dinner the bottle is passed along the table. If you don't like wine then just say so. Water glasses with ice water should also be placed at the top of the dinner/salad plates.
Don't feel you have to eat everything that is given you. Say nothing, but pass the food (if not served by a maid) to the next person. If a maid or (if in a restaurant) a waiter/waitress is serving then just quietly say 'no thank you.' Don't take huge portions of food because you can always go back for seconds (if asked!)
When you finish your main course cross your knife and fork diagonally ... across your plate .... side by side (this means you are finished.) If you aren't finished and would like more then place your knife and fork on the plate side by side. This is only used at wealthy banquets or at high end restaurants. When eating at someones home cross your knife and fork on the plate. The Hostess will usually ask if you would like another portion of everything and if you want to then do so.
If eating with a family then offer to help clear the table or even do dishes.
Be sure you thank the host and hostess for the delicious meal.
The above detailed information on proper table manners or etiquette is superb!! Although may not be intentional, this question states "how can you learn...good table manners" How? Well, yes, you can learn from an excellent response as above, but hopefully, we learn the basics when we are children from our parents. Then, as we mature and need to learn more about fine dining and being a good hostess, we can research (WikiAnswers), read, and consult friends, relatives, and/or contacts.
It is great information. Only one statement is mixed up: placing knife and fork side by side diagonally on plate means you are finished and placing them crossed on plate means you would like to get offered more food, not reversed. Also noteworthy: in Europe except Great Britain both hands need to be on the table, even if not in use. It is impolite not to do so. In North America and Great Britain the hand not in use remains under the table unless you are using a fork in your left to hold down the food you are cutting. The knife is then placed on top rim of plate, the fork is changed over to the right hand to pick up the cut bites. In Europe except Great Britain the cut food remains and is picked up with the fork in left hand, the knife is not dropped.
If you are still confused you can purchase an etiquette book from your local bookstore.
Good table manners are learned from one's parents or nanny. If they have failed in that duty then you should purchase a suitable book on the subject.
2)With so many people eating at fast food restaurants, dining etiquette is falling by the wayside. Dining etiquette is important for everyone to know, especially those who want to climb the corporate ladder. Many jobs require attendance at dinner parties, conventions and company dinners where proper dining etiquette is a must.
Step1Wait until everyone at your table is served before you begin eating. This rule of etiquette holds true for eating at banquets, weddings or social occasions as well as in restaurants. If the server tells you that your food is delayed, tell the others in the party to begin eating and not wait for you. If you are at a very large table, most etiquette experts agree that you can begin eating when at least half of the people have been served their food. This etiquette rule holds true for all courses of food. Step2Pass the food to your right if you are eating "family style", no matter where you're eating. Pass the food to the person on your right without taking any. There are two options for you at this point; wait until the food dish comes back to you before taking a serving or ask the person you've passed it to if you can help yourself. A simple "Do you mind if I take a roll?" is a good way to phrase the question. Although dining etiquette in some European countries pass the food to the left, American etiquette is to pass the food to the right. Step3Look at the dining table to be sure everyone has been served, if you are the host. Proper etiquette requires your guests to wait for you, as the host, to begin eating before you do. When all of your guests have been seated and served their food, you may begin eating. The proper dining etiquette is simply a matter of respect for others and will help you go far in life.
Response from:
NEERAJA NAVEEN, Council Member on
Ask Agent
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Table manners is important because it teaches the self disciplie in the life.
Manners are important in society. They help us to be civil to one another. Because a person who minds their manners knows how to act in every circumstance he tends to feel comfortable in unfamiliar surroundings.
Good basic table manners are important because they ensure that both guests and hosts are comfortable at the table. Table manners are mostly common sense. Following these will carry you through most common situations from Formal Dinners to a night of poker with the guys.
1. Sit up straight. Try not to slouch or lean back in your chair (even if you are playing cards and don't want you opponents to see your hand).
2. Don't speak with your mouth full of food. Sure, you've heard your mother say it a hundred times, but no one likes to see a ball of masticated meat in your mouth. If you feel you must speak immediately, if you have only a relatively small bite, tuck it into your cheek with your tongue and speak briefly.
3. Chew quietly, and try not to slurp. This is a corollary of rule number 2. Making noises is not only unappetizing, and distracting, but it can also interrupt the flow of conversation.
4. Keep bites small. In order to facilitate the above rules it is smart to keep bite sizes to a moderate forkful. Cut meat and salad so that it doesn't hang from your mouth after you shovel it in. Don't cut all of your meat at one time, this tends to remind people of feeding small children - and the messiness associated with this activity.
5. Eat at a leisurely pace. This rule, besides being good for the digestion, also shows your host that you want to enjoy the food and the company. Eating quickly and running is sign of disrespect for the host, as it shows that your focus is on the food and that you would rather be at home watching the grass grow than passing time with your host.
6. Don't wave utensils in the air, especially knives or if there is food on them. Besides the danger of knocking over glasses, piercing waiters or launching a pea into the eye of your date, this is a sign of over-excitedness that may be unappealing to those present. Earnestness is to be commended, but irrational exuberance goes beyond the limits of good table manners.
7. Keep your elbows off the table. You have also heard this one from your mother, ad infinitum, but in close dining situations it is a vital rule. Elbows take up table space and can be a danger in knocking plates or glasses. Elbows on the table give you something to lean on and tend to lull you into slouching. If you must lean on the table a good tactic is to take a roll or piece of bread into your free hand and rest part of your forearm on the table.
8. Don't Reach. You don't want to get in the way of people either eating or talking. Not only is it as impolite as standing in front of a TV with other people behind you, but there is always the possibility of upsetting glasses or running your sleeve through someone's mashed potatoes.
9. Don't forget please and thank you. These are handy words in most situations but especially vital at the table where common courtesies are noticed by everyone present.
10. Excuse yourself when leaving the table. You don't want people to think that you are tired of their company. If you must leave the table make your excuses somewhat obvious and appear to be pressing. You want to leave people with the impression that you would rather remain at the table talking with them than doing anything else, but the matter at hand is so pressing that it must be attended to at once.
11. Compliment the Cook. Even if the food is perfectly awful say something nice. You don't have to lie, simply find the positive side of the burnt leg of lamb..."Gee, the sauce was sure tasty." It is always pleasant to end a meal on a positive note.
12. Wipe your mouth before drinking. Ever notice that disgusting smudge on the edge of your wine glass? This can be avoided by first wiping your lips with your napkin. (Thanks to Lindy Hill for this contribution.)
Response from:
Anonymous , Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
I am giving some basic table manners that are important according to Indian traditions.These are meant to respect food and elders.It is good manners to have food like a civilized person. It is important because it is eating way that makes us different from other animals, otherwise each animal also has food.
I am not providing a list like fork in right hand and spoon in left , I am just providing some basic manners that should be adopted by a family regularly
* Wait for the host or the eldest person to start first. * You should maintain silence while eating food. You are not expected to chat unnecessarily with the people around the table. * It is acceptable not to use cutlery for eating, as many foods - such as Indian breads and curry - are best enjoyed when eating with the hand. * Wash hands thoroughly before sitting at the table as some Indian foods are primarily eaten by hand. Also, wash hands after eating the food. Usually, a finger bowl (with luke warm water and lemon) is served per person for rinsing fingers. * In North India, when eating curry, the gravy must not be allowed to stain the fingers --only the fingertips are used. However, in South India, it is acceptable to use more of your hand. * When flat breads such as chapati, roti, or naan are served with the meal, it is acceptable and expected to use pieces of them to gather food and sop-up gravies and curries. * The cardinal rule of dining is to always use the right hand when eating or receiving food and never the left. Even a piece from the bread is broken using the right hand alone. * It is considered inappropriate to use your fingers to share food from someone else's plate once you have started using your own. Instead, ask for a clean spoon to transfer the food to your plate from the common dish. * When eating with hands, always eat with right, as mentioned above. However, use only the other clean hand to transfer food from a common dish on the table. * It is not necessary to taste each and every dish prepared; but you must finish everything on the plate as it is considered a respect for served food. For that reason, take only as much food on the plate you can finish. * Do not chew so loudly that someone else can hear it * Chew with your mouth closed * Eat everything on the plate; leaving some food is considered wasteful * Eating additional servings is considered polite and a compliment to the host * When using a knife and fork, eat American style switching fork from left to right hand or keep knife in left hand * Do not start eating until the eldest in the family eats first * If eating food with bread, first tear bread in half. Then break off a small piece, only using your right hand if you can do so elegantly. Use bread to pinch or scoop food between thumb and fingers.
General Behavior
* Chew with your mouth closed. * Do not talk with food in your mouth. * Do not talk at an excessively loud volume. * Refrain from coughing, sneezing or blowing nose at the table. * Never tilt back your chair while at the table. Sit in a relaxed and comfortable position, but do not "slouch." * Do not "play with" your food, or with your table utensils. * Do not make loud or unusual noises while eating. * Do not single out, chastise or tell someone who has shown poor table manners. * It is generally acceptable to rest your fore-arms on the table, though you should take care to never rest your elbows on the table. * Always ask the host or hostess to be excused before leaving the table. * Do not stare at anyone while he or she is eating. It is considered rude. * Never talk on your phone or text a friend at the table. If an urgent matter arises, ask host or hostess to be excused, and step away from the table. * Do not slurp your food or eat loudly. * Burping or sneezing at the table should be avoided. If you must do so, you may request that your action be excused. * Excessive flatulence is generally frowned upon * Never tell people what to do other than someone who is responsible for other people at the table. * Men should not wear a hat at the dinner table.
Response from:
tweety pie, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Lot has been said about table manners. I agree one should comply to things which are counted as manners but aren't we ignoring the fact that even table manners differ from culture to culture?....
Take for example Indian culture, we do not believe in a "table", and that doesn't mean we dont have manners!!!! Traditionally in India, people while eating were required to sit on the floor on a clean mat and food was served to them. This practice had its own meaning. Even healthwise, this position is one of the most comfortable ones and while eating, it is advised to have the most comfortable posture possible so that the mind and body, both can relax and food is digested well. Food in such cultures was eaten using your hand. If people argue about the cleanliness of the hand, how clean do they think is the spoon anyway!!!!!!!
Considering the western perspective which nowadays we all believe refers to table manners, we have to maintain certain posture while dining.
Likewise each culture has its own set of the so called table manners and each one has its own reasons to support these practices.
More information regarding table manners can be gathered from the following websites. Please see this, its interesting: Although I did not believe its ethical to copy it as my answer while one of our advisers has done that :) . I would request all our Ammas members to please maintain the reputation of this site by not copy pasting data directly from internet or from other advisors answers
Response from:
Brinda Shine, Registered Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Dining etiquetee is very important in one's life. People are generally gauged on the way they behave in a public places and social gatherings where Table manners play a vital role. A person however dressed good or posseses a high value is society will not be considered professional unless he follows a proper table manners.Different cultures have different type of table manners, so the culture and habit has to be well kept in mind before attending such parites.
Etiquettes : 1. Should not fill the plate full. should clarify whether the food is sufficient for others to eat.
2.Even if one is starving with hunger,one should refrain from being over excited at the table.
3.Should not talk while eating. which is very very important.
4.chew food with mouth closed.
5.To the maximum,avoid talking while eating,if at all u want to talk, talk in a low voice.
6.Refrain from coughing, sneezing or blowing nose at the table.
7.Do not "play with" your food, or with your table utensils.
8.Do not make loud or unusual noises while eating.
9.Do not stare at anyone while he or she is eating. It is considered rude.
10.Never talk on your phone or text a friend at the table.
11.Do not slurp your food or eat loudly.
12.Burping or sneezing at the table should be avoided. If you must do so, you may request that your action be excused
13.Do not eat food with your fingers unless you are eating foods customarily eaten with fingers, such as bread, French fries, chicken wings, pizza, etc.
14.At more formal occasions,napkins Should be kpet on their laps . While at the table, it is never acceptable to take your napkin out of your lap. When leaving the table, place your napkin on your chair, not on the table.
15.Never tilt back your chair while at the table.
16.Do not put your elbows on the table or slouch.
17.Always ask excuse if u r leaving the table and if someone is still eating.
18.Start eating only when the food is served to everyone sitting on the table.
17. Eat soup only from the side of the spoon.
18.Never blow ur nose with the napkin provided.
19.Never lean across somebody else’s plate. If you need something to be passed, ask the person closest to it. If you have to pass something, only pass it if you are closest to it and pass it directly to them if you can.
20.If pouring a drink for yourself, offer to pour a drink for your neighbours before serving yourself.
21.If extra food is on the table, ask others first if they would like it before taking it .
22.Swallow all food before eating more or having a drink.
23.Never pick food out of your teeth with your fingernails.
23.You should maintain silence while eating food. You are not expected to chat unnecessarily with the people around the table.
24.Wash hands thoroughly before sitting at the table as some Indian foods are primarily eaten by hand. Also, wash hands after eating the food. Usually, a finger bowl (with luke warm water and lemon) is served per person for rinsing fingers.
25.Always cover your mouth with a tissue when toothpicking.
Response from:
Anu Babu, Council Member on
Ammas.com
Source:
This information comes from my own knowledge.
Hi., Manners are important in society. They help us to be civil to one another. Because a person who minds their manners knows how to act in every circumstance he tends to feel comfortable in unfamiliar surroundings.Nowhere are manners more important that at the table. Table manners prevent diners from being sloppy, offensive and boorish. They help to communicate respect to hosts and guests alike. Table manners are not hard and fast rules, rather they are helpful guidelines in our social relationships. Table manners are the etiquette used when eating. This includes the appropriate use of utensils. Different cultures have different standards for table manners. Many table manners evolved out of practicality. For example, it is generally impolite to put elbows on tables since doing so creates a risk of tipping over bowls and cups.
Basic Table Manners Good basic table manners are important because they ensure that both guests and hosts are comfortable at the table. Table manners are mostly common sense. Following these will carry you through most common situations from Formal Dinners to a night of poker with the guys. 1. Sit up straight. Try not to slouch or lean back in your chair 2. Don't speak with your mouth full of food. if you have only a relatively small bite, tuck it into your cheek with your tongue and speak briefly. 3. Chew quietly, and try not to slurp. Making noises is not only unappetizing, and distracting, but it can also interrupt the flow of conversation. 4. Keep bites small. In order to facilitate the above rules it is smart to keep bite sizes to a moderate forkful. Cut meat and salad so that it doesn't hang from your mouth after you shovel it in. Don't cut all of your meat at one time, this tends to remind people of feeding small children - and the messiness associated with this activity. 5. Eat at a leisurely pace. This rule, besides being good for the digestion, also shows your host that you want to enjoy the food and the company. Eating quickly and running is sign of disrespect for the host, as it shows that your focus is on the food and that you would rather be at home watching the grass grow than passing time with your host. 6. Don't wave utensils in the air, especially knives or if there is food on them. Besides the danger of knocking over glasses, piercing waiters or launching a pea into the eye of your date, this is a sign of over-excitedness that may be unappealing to those present. Earnestness is to be commended, but irrational exuberance goes beyond the limits of good table manners. 7. Keep your elbows off the table. You have also heard this one from your mother, ad infinitum, but in close dining situations it is a vital rule. Elbows take up table space and can be a danger in knocking plates or glasses. Elbows on the table give you something to lean on and tend to lull you into slouching. If you must lean on the table a good tactic is to take a roll or piece of bread into your free hand and rest part of your forearm on the table. 8. Don't Reach. You don't want to get in the way of people either eating or talking. Not only is it as impolite as standing in front of a TV with other people behind you, but there is always the possibility of upsetting glasses or running your sleeve through someone's mashed potatoes. 9. Don't forget please and thank you. These are handy words in most situations but especially vital at the table where common courtesies are noticed by everyone present. 10. Excuse yourself when leaving the table. You don't want people to think that you are tired of their company. If you must leave the table make your excuses somewhat obvious and appear to be pressing. You want to leave people with the impression that you would rather remain at the table talking with them than doing anything else, but the matter at hand is so pressing that it must be attended to at once. 11. Compliment the Cook. Even if the food is perfectly awful say something nice. You don't have to lie, simply find the positive side of the burnt leg of lamb..."Gee, the sauce was sure tasty." It is always pleasant to end a meal on a positive note. 12. Wipe your mouth before drinking. This can be avoided by first wiping your lips with your napkin.
Indian table manners * Wait for the host or the eldest person to start first. * You should maintain silence while eating food. You are not expected to chat unnecessarily with the people around the table. * It is acceptable not to use cutlery for eating, as many foods - such as Indian breads and curry - are best enjoyed when eating with the hand. * Wash hands thoroughly before sitting at the table as some Indian foods are primarily eaten by hand. Also, wash hands after eating the food. Usually, a finger bowl (with luke warm water and lemon) is served per person for rinsing fingers. * In North India, when eating curry, the gravy must not be allowed to stain the fingers --only the fingertips are used. However, in South India, it is acceptable to use more of your hand. * When flatbreads such as chapati, roti, or naan are served with the meal, it is acceptable and expected to use pieces of them to gather food and sop-up gravies and curries. * The cardinal rule of dining is to always use the right hand when eating or receiving food and never the left. Even a piece from the bread is broken using the right hand alone. * It is considered inappropriate to use your fingers to share food from someone else's plate once you have started using your own. Instead, ask for a clean spoon to transfer the food to your plate from the common dish. * When eating with hands, always eat with right, as mentioned above. However, use only the other clean hand to transfer food from a common dish on the table. * It is not necessary to taste each and every dish prepared; but you must finish everything on the plate as it is considered a respect for served food. For that reason, take only as much food on the plate you can finish.
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