Table manners are known to play an integral part in making a favourable impression. While etiquette rules are designed to make you feel comfortable here’s what you need to note, to feel just so.
At a private dinner party, the meal begins when the host or hostess unfolds his or her napkin. This is an indication to follow suit. Place your napkin on your lap, completely unfolded if it is a small luncheon napkin or in half, lengthwise, if it is a large dinner napkin. Do not shake it open.
The napkin should rests on your lap till the end of the meal. Once done, place the napkin in loose folds to the left of your plate.
When your host or hostess picks up their fork to eat, it signifies the start of the meal. You too might do so. However do not start eating unless the host or hostess insists that you do.
Always pass food from the left to the right.
When asking for something, do not forget to use the word please. Be sure to say thank you to your server after they have removed any used items.
When someone asks for the salt or pepper, pass both together even if you are asked to pass only one of them.
Never intercept a pass. Snagging a roll out of the breadbasket or taking a shake of salt when it is en route to someone else is a no-no.
Transfer butter, spreads, or dips from the serving dish to your plate before spreading or eating.
Always scoop food away from you and do try a little of everything on your plate.
Don't blow on your food to cool it off. If it is too hot to eat, take the hint and wait.
Elbows off the table! Keep your left hand in your lap unless you are using it.
Do not talk with your mouth full. Chew with your mouth closed.
Cut only enough food for the next mouthful. Eat in small bites and slowly.
Do not blow your nose at the dinner table. Excuse yourself to visit the restroom. Make sure to wash your hands before returning to the dining room.
Turn off your cell phone or switch it to silent or vibrate mode before sitting down to eat.
Do not use a toothpick or apply makeup at the table.
Whenever a woman leaves the table or returns to sit, all men seated with her should stand up.
Lastly do not push your dishes away from you or stack them for the waiter when you are done. Leave plates and glasses where they are.
