Table manners are rules of etiquettes used while eating.
Different cultures observe different rules for table manners ,many table manners evolved out of practicality, for example, it is generally impolite to put elbows on the table since doing so creates a risk of tipping over bowls and cups .Each family or group sets its own standards for how strictly these rules should be enforced.
- In many African settings, eating many meals is done without cutlery but with the right hand
- If eating on a mat or carpet do not expose the sole of your feet, it is considered very rude.
- It is rude to talk or laugh with food in your mouth.
- Keep your mouth closed when chewing.
- If you are I a group or organized settings, eat everything on your plate as it is considered wasteful to leave food on your plate. However in many places, like Africa, when an adult eats, he should leave a little something for the kids in the house.
- Never pick food out of your teeth with your fingernails.
- Turn your head away from the table when coughing or sneezing.
Table etiquettes at home are really quite simple here are a few basic rules we need to know in order for us to get by and fit-in when invited to formal functions in our offices, social events and sometimes in the church.
- During business meals it is best not to eat to the point of satiation as business not food is the point of the gathering.
- Say excuse me before leaving the table, if going to the restroom you don’t have to let people know.
- Don’t blow your nose at the table, excuse yourself if you must do so.
- You may rest your forearms not elbows on the table
- Gentlemen should stand when a lady leaves or rejoins the table
- The fork is always in the left hand and the knife in the right hand
- knife in the right (the fork is used to east rice,tubers,cakes and accompanied with the spoon to eat pasta)
- Spoons are held in the right hand and are used to eat cereals, porridge and soups.
The basic rule however is that all cutleries provided are placed for use from the outside to the inside towards the main plate.
- When you have finished eating, place all used cutlery on your plate together on the right side pointed up not on the table.
- Except in a public restaurant, do not ask for uneaten food or leftovers to be taken home, NEVER do so when attending a formal dinner, the host may suggest but shouldn’t insist.
- When leaving the table momentarily place the napkin on your chair, but when leaving finally, place the napkin on the table to the left of your plate.
- Guests should refrain from eating too much unless the host coaxes them to eat more which often happens, however the bible made ready provision for this in proverbs 23v1 when the wise man said “when you sit down to eat with a rich man put a knife to your throat……” eat like a slob and you’ll be considered a slob.
Finally, no matter where you find yourself, place a nice smile on your face during the meal, it makes your host more comfortable that you’re appreciative of the gesture of inviting you even before you say it.
Eating is a social activity, a time people join a special someone, family, and friends, co-workers in a setting where we can talk and have a good time. Focus on the people you are with ,think about making their time with you the very best possible then act accordingly, you’ll bet they’ll want to be with you again.
