1. Table Etiquette

2. Etiquette
Definition :The proper or correct way to do things in social situation.

3. Table Setting Tableware includes: dishes, glasses, and flatware
Cover refers to the space or area needed for one person at the table. Allow 24 inches in width, enough space for all tableware.
Use no more flatware than needed.

4. Formal Table Setting Napkin Salad fork Dinner fork Dessert fork
Bread-and-butter plate, with spreader
Dinner plate
Dinner knife
Teaspoon
Soup spoon
Cocktail fork
Water glass
Red-wine glass
White-wine glass
Coffee cup and saucer*

5. Plate and flatware should be 1” from edge of table
Knife blades always face the plate
The napkin goes to the left of the fork, or on the plate. The fold in the napkin should be to the outer edge.
The bread and butter plate and knife are optional
Beverage glass at the tip of the knife
If salad is served with the meal, the plate goes above the fork. If served as first course, it is placed on the dinner plate.

6. Table Setting

7. When a table is crowded, it helps to understand a formal table setting
When a table is crowded, it helps to understand a formal table setting. You want to use the fork and glass intended for you not the one for the person sitting next to you!

8. Table Manners

9. Table Manners
Napkin – place in your lap, folded in half. The fold goes toward the body, use the inside to blot the mouth.
Flatware – work from the outside in.
Passing food - if food is placed on table in bowls, you pass to the right.
Wait until everyone is served before you begin eating.
Use good posture at the table. Feet flat on floor, chair up to the table, back straight, head up.
Arms and elbows do not belong on the table. The hand you are not eating with goes in your lap.
Elbows tucked in to the side of your body

10. You do not cut all of your meat at once. You cut one bite at a time
Bread – you do not cut bread/rolls. Tear a bite off and butter it
If you need a “pusher” for peas or corn use your knife or piece of bread.
Do not “bob” as you eat. The fork should come to your mouth – DO NOT lean or bend to meet the fork.
Bite sized amounts! Chew with your mouth closed.
Do not talk with food in your mouth!
Soup – the bowl of the spoon should be dipped away from you.

11. Conversation – pleasant, generally not politics or religion.
When finished eating, place flatware on the plate (think of your plate as a clock face and place flatware at 4:00). Your napkin is placed on table to left of plate.
Wait until everyone is finished eating to leave the table.

12. Do you need a box?
What are your thoughts on whether it is proper to ask for a to-go container/ doggy bag?

13. Doggy Bag or not? If in doubt, don’t do it!
Can leave a bad impression to dates or business associates
Rule 1 of doggy bags: When dining with people you don’t know well, don’t ask for one
Rule 2: Forgo the bag at least for the 1st 3 dates to avoid looking cheap or frugal
Rule 3: Don’t ask in places like business meals, five star restaurants, weddings, or buffets and be mindful that some restaurants that don’t fall under these 3 might also refuse (and they can do that)
Rule 4: To combat rule number 3 you might try sneaking in your own to-go ware…this could seem needy and not a good etiquette on your date or worst potential employer.
During business luncheons/dinners it comes off poorly because the purpose of the encounter is business not your food.
Also consider the handshakes and farewells at the end- you would be jugging food you hoped not to spill

14. Now it is time to practice setting the table…
Work with a partner, collect plate, glass, flatware and napkin. Be sure to include an interesting napkin fold in your setting.