Setting the Table
What is the very first step before you eat or help set the table?
Wash your hands.
What are the basic ground rules regarding chewing and talking?
Chew with your mouth closed.
Don't talk with food in your mouth. If someone asks you a question, wait until you swallow before answering.
What should you do if you don't like something being served?
Try at least 2-3 bites. Maintain an open mind and positive attitude. Don't express words like "yuck", "gross", or "do I have to?".
What should you say when you finish a meal, even if it wasn't your favorite?
THANK YOU! Express gratitude for the work to prepare the meal and compliment the chef if you liked the food. Don't say anything but thank you if you didn't like the food.
What should you do if you want something that isn't close to you at the table?
Ask the person closest to it politely, "Uncle Charlie, could you please pass the rolls?"
Never reach across the table for something.
What two items are placed on the left side of the plate?
The fork and the napkin, with the napkin folded under the fork.
When is it appropriate to start eating?
No one should start eating their food (or even pick up their fork) until everyone has been served, and even then it's a good idea to pause in case someone is preparing to say a blessing.
What is one of the first things you should do when you sit down at the table?
Place your napkin on your lap.
When is it appropriate to leave the table when you finish eating?
1. After everyone is done eating and the host or your parents signal dinner is over
2. If you ask politely to be excused
What is appropriate etiquette regarding electronics at the table?
No phones or other electronic devices at the table. It is rude to talk on the phone or text while in the company of others.
Which two utensils are found on the right side of the plate?
The knife and the spoon, with the knife closest to the plate, sharp side facing in.
Where should your elbows and non-dominant hand be during the meal?
Keep your elbows OFF the table. Rest the hand you are not using in your lap.
Left to right or counterclockwise
Except at a restaurant, what should you do when you finish a meal?
Offer to help clean up. Dishes, clearing the table, wiping off the table, sweeping/vacuuming, putting extra food away, etc. Stay and help until the work is done.
What should you remember about conversation at the table?
Don't bring up topics that are gross, gory, inappropriate, or controversial (i.e, no bathroom talk). Engage in fun, light conversation, and ask open-ended questions!
In comparison to your plate, where should you place the cup?
On the right side above the knife
True or False: When lifting food from a serving dish, it is appropriate to use your own utensils.
FALSE. Always use serving utensils and not your own to lift food from the serving dish.
What should you do if someone asks you to pass the salt?
You should pass BOTH the salt and the pepper.
BONUS ROUND
Demonstrate the proper way to hold a fork.
How can you know whether or not a food is meant to be eaten with your fingers or utensils?
Follow the lead of the host/hostess (or your parents). If they eat with their hands, you can too! If they use a fork, you should too.
At fancy meals, what do you use the silverware above the plate for?
Dessert! (:
What are the rules regarding cutting your food and eating bread/rolls?
1. Don't cut all your food before you begin eating. Cut one or two bites at a time.
2. Break your bread into bite-sized pieces and butter only one bite at a time
What are the two secret codes to signal to the server that you aren't finished and will be back? (i.e., going to the bathroom)
1. Cross your silverware in an X shape across your plate
2. Place your napkin on the back of your chair
What is the secret code to signal to the server that you are done with your plate?
Place your silverware across your plate facing the 10 o'clock position
AND
Place your napkin to the left of your plate
What should you do before adding salt, pepper, or other seasoning to your food?
Taste it! Doing otherwise may be insulting to the person who prepared the meal.