Manners for Moving Up Part 3

Table Matters

A Table setting includes plates, glasses, spoons, forks, knives & napkins. Do not be intimidated by all that display of china silver & crystal. Keep in mind that your host or the caterer has arranged the tableware according to the food that will be served. As each course arrives on the table, use utensils in order of their position - start with the utmost ones, from left and right side, moving on toward the plate.

No matter how complicated the setting may appear at first glance, know that there won't be more than 4 pieces of any group at any one time - besides which, as the dinner / lunch progresses, the waiter will be taking away used utensils, course after course.

On the right , knives are placed with the blade facing the plate. The dessert fork on the top of the plate, has its handle pointing right because the spoon is held with the right hand. Napkin is found on the left o r at the center of the big plate.

Glasses on the right. Knives & spoon on the right. Forks on the left. Dessert fork & spoon above dinner plate. Use outermost utensils first, going in toward plate.

Some DO's and DON'Ts

If you don't know what you are eating. DON'T BE TOO SHY TO ASK. You are not expected to know everything.

If you don't like what you are eating, don't be shy to spit it out but do it inconspicuously.

Do not eat from your neighbor's plate. If you want to try his food, ask for a small piece and put it in your plate or a spare one.

Some food items are eaten with your fingers, for which you will be given a finger bowl: crabs, steamed shrimps with shell, oysters, mussels, frog's legs, quail, pigeon, spareribs, fried chicken.

Dip your fingertips in the finger bowls, but is still best to simply excuse yourself and wash your hands in the washroom.

Do not burp! if you just did, say "Excuse me.'

Do not fart! Excuse yourself from the table and do it elsewhere.

Excuse yourself if you have to leave the table.

Although it is permissible these days to use a toothpick, cover your mouth with your hand when you do. Never pick your teeth with your fingers in public. Go to the restroom and do this privately. Do not floss in public.