This article explains the proper dining etiquette for social events. Do you use your fingers? Or a fork?
What is that?
I have attended parties where I have been asked if I liked the "canape`s". Huh? We use a lot of words to describe courses of foods. Course meals are still served at many formal events and there are rules! Don't be tardy for the party and be informed so that you can handle any food with class and style. This will ensure that your calendar is full of invites and free food!
Courses
The French typically serve their meals in courses. There can be as many as 6 meal courses. En France, meals can be very involved but they really do not have many differences as far as etiquette rules. There are always exceptions to every rule and this one is buttering bread. Bread is not buttered prior to eating, it is used to sop up any juices that are left on the plate. American's thirsting for everything French have incorporated many of the French cuisines and practices in their dining experiences.
The French usually do not have a large breakfast. Croissants, rolls and coffee or simplistic food is sufficient. Lunches and dinners are affairs that are relished and enjoyed. Dinners can last for at least two hours or longer and are ingrained in the fabric of France.
Fork, Spoon or Fingers?
| Fork | Spoon | Fingers |
| Artichoke heart | Avacado | Artichoke leaves |
| Shrimp without tail | Grapefruit | Shrimp with tail |
| Limp Bacon | Blueberries | Bacon (only crispy) |
| Lobster | Fruit Compote | Pizza |
| Hard Shell Crab | Stewed Fruit | Tea Sandwiches |
|
Oysters |
Papaya |
Canapes |
| Mussels/Clams on halfshell | Pomegranate | Anything with a toothpick |
| Watermellon (if cubed use spoon) | Sushi | |
| Sandwich served open face | Quesadillas | |
| Banana - slice first! | Caviar - spread on toast | |
| Persimmon | Corn on the Cob | |
| French Fries - formal | Cherries | |
| Pieces of Hard Cheese |
Do not do this:
For the most part - if food is messy you will need to use a utensil and if it is small, bite sized food you may use your fingers. If using silverware one should always scoop away from themselves. Food will be served on the left and removed when you are finished from the right side. At fine dining establishments - a finger bowl will be provided by the staff to rinse your fingertips at the end of the meal.
Dining etiquette can be tricky but if ever in doubt - look around and see what everyone else is doing and you will never have to fill up on your foot!
Comments
FloraBreenRobisonApr 13, 2012
RealHousewifeApr 8, 2012
I do sometimes thing it's humorous to see people fiddle with table wear or food they do not know what to do with:). I went out to lunch with a friend no too long ago - and they had never used a pepper grinder before! I was a little surprised?
Thank you very much for your comment!
RealHousewifeApr 8, 2012
Thank you so much!
NatashaApr 2, 2012
katiem2Apr 1, 2012
RealHousewifeMar 31, 2012
buttonheadMar 20, 2012
SusanZutautasMar 16, 2012
Great article!
RealHousewifeMar 14, 2012
mistyhorizon2003Mar 13, 2012
RealHousewifeMar 13, 2012
RealHousewifeMar 13, 2012
RealHousewifeMar 13, 2012
JeannieinabottleMar 12, 2012
AngelMar 12, 2012
RealHousewifeMar 12, 2012
I really enjoy fine dining too! Especially when I am travelling! There is just no better way to relax and if they add some great music - word up!
A Votre Sante!
VincentMooreMar 12, 2012
VincentMooreMar 12, 2012
mistyhorizon2003Mar 12, 2012
RealHousewifeMar 12, 2012
mistyhorizon2003Mar 12, 2012