Table Manners 101

Table manners are an important aspect of dining etiquette, whether you're at a formal dinner, a casual meal with friends, or a holiday gathering. Good table manners demonstrate respect for your dining companions and enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some essential table manners to keep in mind:

Before the Meal

1. Wait to be Seated: If you're at a formal event, wait for the host to indicate where to sit. In casual settings, follow the lead of the host.

2. Napkin Use: Once seated, place your napkin on your lap. Use it to dab your mouth as needed, and place it on the table when you leave.

3. Don’t Start Eating Immediately: Wait until everyone is served or until the host begins the meal before you start eating.

During the Meal

4. Use Utensils Properly: Familiarize yourself with the utensils at your place setting. Generally, use utensils from the outside in, starting with the outermost utensils for the first course.

5. Eat at a Moderate Pace: Keep pace with others at the table. Avoid eating too quickly, as it can be impolite and may lead to discomfort.

6. Chew with Your Mouth Closed: This is a fundamental rule of dining etiquette. Avoid talking with your mouth full and take small bites to facilitate this.

7. Engage in Conversation: Participate in table conversation, but be mindful of topics. Avoid controversial subjects and keep the conversation light and inclusive.

8. Pass Items Properly: Pass salt and pepper together (even if only one is requested) and pass food items to the right. If someone requests something that is farther away, offer to pass it rather than reaching across the table.

9. Don’t Reach: If something is out of reach, politely ask for it to be passed rather than reaching across the table.

10. Use Your Napkin: Dab your mouth with your napkin as needed. If you need to leave the table, place your napkin on your chair to indicate you’ll return.

Finishing Up

11. Know When to Leave the Table: If you need to leave the table during the meal, do so discreetly, and quietly excuse yourself. If possible, wait until a course is finished.

12. Finish Your Plate: It’s polite to finish what’s on your plate, but you can also leave a small amount if you’re full. Don’t push food around the plate without eating.

13. Thank Your Host: At the end of the meal, thank your host for their hospitality. A follow-up thank-you message is also a nice touch.

 After the Meal

14. Help Clean Up: If appropriate, offer to help with cleanup or clearing the table. Your host will likely appreciate the gesture.

15. Avoid Excessive Praise: While it’s important to compliment the meal, avoid overdoing it. A sincere compliment is often more meaningful than excessive flattery.

General Tips 

• Mind Your Posture: Sit up straight and avoid slouching. This not only looks more elegant but also helps you enjoy the experience more fully.
• Use Technology Wisely: If using your phone at the table, keep it discreet and avoid texting or scrolling during the meal. Ideally, keep it away unless necessary.

By following these table manners, you'll create a pleasant dining atmosphere for yourself and those around you. Good manners can make a significant difference in how you’re perceived and can enhance your enjoyment of the meal.