FEATURE
A Guide to
basic table
manners
Table manners have changed over the course of the years, the main reason why table manners are important is to make the experience of eating with others pleasant. Different cultures observe different rules for table manners. Each family or household has their own rules and standards of table manners. With so many table manners to learn and practice, observe these basic but important table manners as you enjoy your meal with others. Napkins: Once you’re seated on the dining table and before you begin eating remove the napkin from the table and place it on your lap. If you get up from your seat in between the meal, place the napkin on your seat instead of the table. Once you’ve finished eating, fold the napkin and place it on the left of your place setting. Holding utensils: The continental style is a very common and widely accepted style of holding your utensils, at formal and casual meals. What is the continental style? Hold the fork in your left hand and the knife in your right hand. Using your left hand, hold the fork with its tines facing downwards and the knife in your right hand an inch or two above the plate. Extend your index finger and place it along the top of your knife’s blade. Utensils to use: This can be confusing at times when there are different types and sizes of utensils set in front of you. To make this easier, use the outside in rule. Start your meal by using utensils on the outside for salad or appetizer and then work your way inward as you’re served with the AUGUST 16-22 2020
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