A delectable meal is like tasting heavens but if it is eaten in correct etiquette, it will enhance the experience.
For formal dinners or official lunches you must follow these basic table etiquette that will leave a lasting impression on the ones sharing food on the same table.
These rules do not take much effort but are simple things that will make you look sophisticated.
1. The BMW rule
It is not the brand of cars that we are talking about, the BMW rule is ‘Bread-Meal-Water’ sequence that we should follow while laying the table. You should keep the bread plate on the left, the meal plate in the middle and water on the right.
2. Do not sip while you are chewing food
If you are served a beverage along with your food you should wait to take a sip while chewing food. Finish chewing your food first and then take a sip. Taking a sip in between is considered ill-mannered.
3. Turn off mobile
Mobiles have become an inseparable part of our lives but at the meal table one must keep their phones on silent mode. Using phones while eating is considered a bad manner and does not look polite. Spend time with the ones who are in front of you rather than with the ones kilometers away. If the call is very important, excuse yourself and take the call by stepping out.
4. Fork in left hand and knife in right hand
Always remember that you must hold the fork in your left hand and knife in the right hand. Though it looks easier to eat with a fork in the right hand but that is wrong. Fork in left hand helps you stabilizing the bite size and with knife in the right hand you can cut the piece with the right amount of pressure.
5. Avoid placing your elbows on the table
Though it is not too much that anyone of us care about but placing your elbows on the table is not considered a good manner. Placing the elbows on the table also brings you closer to the person sitting in the opposite chair which might not be very comfortable to them.
6. Wait for everyone to get served
Yes, you must wait till the food is served in everyone’s plate. Do not pick up your spoon and start eating the moment your plate is full.
7. Do not shout out to a waiter
It is only decent to not shout out to a waiter at a restaurant. Make an eye contact and nod to call or just silently raise your hand to your shoulder to indicate that you demand their attention.
