Etiquette Chapter 19

1. EtiquetteChapter 19

2. Using the correct forks for the main course, salad, and dessert are all actions that are part of table etiquette. • Table Etiquette consists of rules of social conduct that are based on consideration and respect for others. Table etiquette guidelines are meant to put you at ease in social situations by helping you know how to act.

3. An example might be a business lunch where an important deal is finalized. People who order an entrée with confidence and treat servers with consideration show good qualities for dealing with larger matters.

4. Here are a few basic skills that will cover most dinning situations: • Unfold your napkin on your lap before you start eating. • Sit up straight when you eat. Bring the food to your mouth, and avoid putting your elbows on the table • Dip the soup spoon away from you in the bowl. Do not slurp! • If you cough or sneeze cover your mouth and nose with a handkerchief or a napkin and turn away from the table

5. Cut each food in manageable pieces as you eat it, rather than all at once • You may reach for serving dishes as long as you don’t have to lean across your neighbor • After stirring a beverage with a spoon, place the spoon on the saucer • If you have trouble getting peas or other food onto your fork, push it with a piece of bread or the tip of your dinner knife

6. For removing an inedible part of food from the mouth, remove it as discreetly as possible. When you have finished eating, place your fork and knife across your plate, sided by side, pointing toward the center • Use a toothpick in privacy • Never comb your hair or apply makeup at the table • Wait for other to finish before leaving the table. Excuse yourself if you must leave.

7. Respecting Cultural Differences • Table etiquette varies among cultures. For example, in traditional Japanese etiquette, slurping noodles show appreciation for the meal and in Indonesia a loud burp at the end of the meal is a compliment to the cook. If you were to investigate, you would see how rules for eating and serving food develop response to each culture’s customs and heritage

8. Etiquette for Guest • Being invited to a meal in someone’s home is a privilege. Guest should show their appreciation by acting courteously. • Reply to the invitation • Politely mention any diet restrictions • Arrive on time

9. Call if you are delayed • Greet everyone once you have arrived • If food is served buffet style, don’t touch food unless you intend to eat it • If a dip is served, dip a piece of food into the mixture just once

10. Guidelines for a sit-down meal: • If there are six or fewer people at the table, wait until everyone is served before you eat. • If you you’re not sure how to eat a food or which flatware to use, follow the lead of the host • Try to eat at the same pace as your companions • If for any reason you cannot eat a food that is being passed at the table, don’t make an issue of it

11. Before taking the last serving of a food, ask whether anyone else would like it • If you spill anything, mop it up quickly with you napkin • Don’t feed the pets from the table.

12. Restaurant Etiquette Sit Down Restaurants • If you plan to go to a formal restaurant, it’s wise to make a reservation. This is an arrangement made ahead of time by telephone for a table at a restaurant. • Make sure you understand the menu and what the meal consists of and how items are priced. A la carte means items are listed and priced individually.

13. Paying the Check • Once you have received your bill look over it carefully. When paying the bill it’s customary to leave a tip, or gratuity. This is extra money given to the server in apperception for good services. A standard tip is 15% of the pretax bill, 18% if you request separate checks. How much to tip Fancy 20% Family 15% or more Coffee Shops $.25 for Beverage only; if order food 15% or at least $.50 whichever is higher Fast-food None

14. Fast-Food Restaurants • Even in the informal setting of a fast-food restaurant, certain manners are appreciated.

15. Complaints and Compliments • It is not poor etiquette to complain to the staff about a poor restaurant experience. Politely discussing a problem that you had helps them to serve others better. Make complaints about the food to the server. Make complains about the service to the manger. • Be equally ready to express you appreciation for both the serve rand management of excellent food and service.