Dining Etiquette 101 Megan Allen, BSFCS Department of Foods & Nutrition University of Georgia March 27, 2012
Outline Reservations General rules Napkins, Silverware, Dinnerware Serving, Passing, Eating Table Manners Paying the bill Etiquette for Specific Food Items
Reservations Stick to it Call ahead if late Cancel in advance No-show fees
General Rules Dress code Arrive 10 minutes early Wait for host/hostess to sit down Prayer or blessing Always join in with a toast Coffee or tea Gifts Should not expect to serve Thank you note
Napkins, Silverware, Dinnerware Remove napkin when seated Napkin remains in lap until end of meal Loosely fold napkin when excusing yourself from the table
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Napkins, Silverware, Dinnerware Cutting Methods: American style Continental/European style Once used, utensil should not touch the table Signal that your done Unused silverware should be left on the table
Serving, Passing, Eating Dishes are served from the left and removed from the right Always say please and thank you Butter, spreads, or dips should be transferred to plate before eating or spreading Pass food from left to right
Serving, Passing, Eating Do NOT talk with food in your mouth Taste food before seasoning Do not blow on food to cool Cut only enough food for the next mouthful Eat a little of everything on your plate Pace your eating Do not play with your food or utensils
Table Manners Keep elbows off the table and keep left hand in lap Do your best to mingle with everyone Do not clean up spills Loud eating and coughing Turn off your cell phone
Paying the Bill Tell waiter when check should be separate Consider significant price differences Always leave a tip (vary from 15 – 25%) Waiter: 15 – 20% (25% for extraordinary service) Coat check: $1.00 coat check Car attendant: $2.00 to $5.00
Etiquette for Specific Food Items Asparagus Bacon Berries Bread Cheese Chicken Corn on the cob
Etiquette for Specific Foods French fries Pasta or spaghetti Potatoes Salad Soup
Thank You! Happy Dining!