Contents

Know more about this
(or any other) subject?

Show off your know-how at Quamut Wiki.

Learn more with these titles from Barnes & Noble

Emily Post's Etiquette, 17th Edition

From Clueless to Class Act: Manners for the Modern Woman

From Clueless to Class Act: Manners for the Modern Man

The Art of Civilized Conversation: A Guide to Expressing Yourself with Style and Grace

How To Be A Lady: A Contemporary Guide to Common Courtesy

Previous:
Etiquette vs. Manners

Next:
How to Set a Table

Table Manners

Table manners, also called dining etiquette or table etiquette, are designed to ensure that everyone at the table enjoys the food and conversation to the fullest.

Basic Table Manners

The rules of table manners depend on the formality of the occasion and the wishes of the host. If you’re ever uncertain just how formal a meal is supposed to be, observe the host and follow his or her lead. The guidelines below will give you a good idea of what to watch for.

Food and Eating

Starting to eat: Eat only once everyone else has been served, unless you’re at a picnic or buffet or your host insists that you eat before your food gets cold.
Chewing: Chew with your mouth closed. Don’t talk while chewing.
Don’t double dip: Never reinsert a food from which you’ve taken a bite into a shared sauce or dip.
Pace: Eat at the same speed as the other guests.
Utensils: Never wave your utensils when you gesture.
Cutting food: Cut just one bite of food at a time.
Napkins: At most meals, place your napkin on your lap as soon as you sit down. At formal dinners, wait to place your napkin until your host does so.
Passing salt and pepper: If someone asks for the salt or pepper, pass both.

Posture

Elbows: Your elbows may rest on the table only before or after courses. If there’s food on your plate, your elbows shouldn’t be on the table.
Sit up straight: Slouching will make it appear as if you’re not enjoying yourself.

Avoid Embarrassing the Host

Certain rules of etiquette are intended to prevent guests from implying that the host did something wrong, such as seasoning the food poorly or serving something too hot.

Seasonings: Taste food before applying salt or pepper.
Cooling food: Let food cool naturally; don’t blow on it.
Try everything: If you’re a guest, taste a little bit of everything served.
Dietary considerations: Let the host know in advance if you’re vegetarian, have food allergies, or have other special dietary considerations.