Imagine being at a dinner where someone talks with their mouth full, slurps loudly, or interrupts others while they're speaking. These are examples of poor table manners. Following table manners is important when we eat with others in different situations. It helps make gatherings more pleasant and successful, whether it's a formal work dinner, a family celebration, or just hanging out with friends. Good manners go beyond just being polite; they make communication better, strengthen relationships, and make the dining experience enjoyable for everyone. When we show good table manners, it shows that we care about others, and it can make a positive impression, especially in work situations.  

And it’s fine to not know the best table manners.  

We’re here to help. In today’s blog, we will highlight the top dining table manners that you need to follow: 

1. Follow dining seating arrangement:

Dining table manners says that you must wait for the host or the eldest person to indicate where you should sit. In more formal settings, there might be assigned seating arrangements, and it's respectful to wait for guidance. 

2. Use right hand for eating:

In many Indian households, eating with fingers is a common practice, particularly in South India. However, as per dining table manners, if utensils are used, it's customary to use the right hand for eating. The left hand is considered impolite. Moreover, you must use the right cutlery for each dish. For instance, using a spoon for curry and a fork for rice is considered proper. 

3. Share food with serving spoons:

If sharing food, avoid touching other people's plates directly. Instead, use different serving spoons or allow others to serve themselves to maintain hygiene and show respect. 

4. Pass food in the right direction:

When serving food, pass dishes to the right, keeping them close to the person you are passing to. This traditional practice ensures smooth and orderly meal service. While enjoying a meal, it's customary to maintain personal space and not reach across others to access dishes. Requesting items to be passed politely and ensuring everyone has sufficient room adds to the overall comfort of the dining experience. 

5. Avoid leaving too much food in plate:

In a country where food is considered sacred, taking only what you can finish is crucial to avoid food wastage. Wasting food is considered disrespectful and goes against cultural values. Table manners also imply that leaving too much food in the plate signals that you did not enjoy the meal.  

6. Chewing with Mouth Closed:

Chewing with the mouth open is considered impolite in India. Closing the mouth while chewing is one of the most basic table etiquette rules.  

7. Do not burp and fart:

Suppressing burps and avoiding audible farting at the table are essential etiquette rules. If necessary, excuse yourself and go to a private space to maintain decorum. 

8. Remember to use your napkin:

Using napkins or tissues to wipe hands or mouth is a common table etiquette. Placing the napkin on your lap during the meal is a polite gesture.

9. Avoid making spoon sound:

When using spoons, particularly in formal or quiet settings, it's essential to avoid making unnecessary sounds. Gently stirring or scooping food without clattering the spoon against the dish demonstrates consideration for others and maintains a serene dining atmosphere.

10. Respect your elders:

When serving dishes, it is customary to offer food to elders or the most senior members of the gathering first. This traditional practice demonstrates reverence for age and hierarchy.

11. Silence your phone:

Keeping mobile phones on silent mode and avoiding texting or taking calls during the meal is considered polite. Engaging in conversation with those around you is encouraged. If any conversation is happening at the dinner table, then you must listen well. Interrupting or talking over others while they are speaking is discouraged as per dining etiquette rules. It's also customary to wait for a pause before contributing to the conversation. 

12. Respecting others dietary preferences:

Being mindful of dietary restrictions or preferences of others at the table is a considerate practice. Checking in advance for specific preferences or restrictions is a polite gesture. 

13. Proper disposal of leftovers:

Place the discards on the left-hand side of the plate. Finishing your entire meal or leaving a small amount to signify that you are satisfied is customary. Also, make sure the rims of your plate are clean as a respect to service staff.

14. Thank the host:

Expressing gratitude to the host after the meal is a common courtesy and you don’t need any table etiquette for this. Complimenting the food and appreciating the hospitality is a polite way to conclude the dining experience. 

15. Following the host’s lead:

After the meal wait for the eldest or the host to leave the table before excusing yourself is a sign of respect. It acknowledges their role and leadership in the gathering.

Dining Table Etiquette for Specific Type of Dining Situations:   

1. Formal Dining:

• Place Settings: Use utensils from the outside in, and glasses the same way. Bread plate on the left, drinks on the right. 
• Napkin Use: Place on your lap, blot mouth discreetly, and leave it to the left when finished. 
• Table Conversation: Keep conversation polite and subdued, avoiding controversial topics. 

• Cutlery Handling: Know how to use each piece properly. Forks on the left, knives on the right, spoons to the right of knives. 
• Dress Code: Follow the specified dress code, usually more formal attire. 

2. Buffet Dining:

• Utensil Handling: Use serving utensils, not personal ones. 
• Line Etiquette: Wait patiently in line, take a small portion initially, and avoid crowding. 
• Space Management: Find a designated eating area, not at the buffet. 
• Navigating the Buffet: Move systematically to avoid congestion, don't skip ahead, and don't bring drinks to the buffet. 

3. Dining at Someone's House:

• Arrival Time: Be on time or slightly later, not too late. 
• Gifts: Bring a small gift like flowers, wine, or dessert. 
• Offering Help: Offer assistance with setting the table, serving, or clearing dishes. 
• Compliments: Compliment the host on the meal and setting. 
• Follow House Rules: Observe and follow house rules regarding shoes, pets, etc. 
• Thank-You Note: Consider sending a thank-you note expressing gratitude for the hospitality. 

Practicing good dining etiquette rules, whether in formal settings, buffet-style gatherings, or someone's home, contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment of the dining experience. Using the right cutlery, maintaining a considerate demeanour, and respecting cultural nuances enhance the communal act of sharing a meal. Good manners not only showcase respect for others but also create an atmosphere where everyone can relax and relish the meal. So, whether at a formal dinner, a buffet spread, or a friend's home, remember that impeccable dining table manners elevates the experience for all involved, making every meal a delightful occasion.