Rules for basic table manners

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THE BASIC RULES OF TABLE MANNERS

NAPKINSPlace your napkin on your lap as soon as you sit down. When you get up, leave it unfolded to the left of the place setting

ELBOWSSit up straight, square to the table, with your hands on your lap, before you eat. Never put your elbows on the table!

WHEN TO EAT

If served a meal already on the plate, wait until everyone has their food before starting, unless your host invites you to begin. Eat at a relaxed pace, matching your speed to that of your fellow diners so you finish at the same time.

CUTLERYHold your knife in the right hand, tucking the handle into your palm and your index finger along the top. Hold the fork in the left when used with a knife or spoon with the prongs facing downwards. If on its own, use the right hand with prongs facing upwards.

CHOPSTICKSPractice using these at home - hold the top stick between thumb and forefinger, with your middle finger between the sticks. Use the top stick to grip your food and place it in your mouth. Whatever you do, do not pass food to people using your chopsticks or point at anyone with them.

TALKINGAt all costs - even if you’ve got the spiciest story to tell - avoid talking with your mouth full. This is a huge faux-pas!

SLURPINGAlmost as bad as talking with your mouth full! Try not to make any noises as you eat, like slurping soup or cutlery against your teeth or plate.

WHEN FINISHEDAfter you’ve finished eating, place your knife and fork (with the prongs facing upwards) together on your plate.

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