Napkin Know-How
When should you place your napkin in your lap?
As soon as you sit down
On which side of the plate does the fork go?
Left
True or False — You should wait until everyone is served before eating.
True
When passing food, which direction should you go?
To the right.
True or False — It’s polite to push your plate away when you’re done.
False.
Where should you place your napkin if you leave the table temporarily?
On your chair
On which side dies the knife go, and which way should the blade face?
Right side, blade facing the plate
Should you ever talk with food in your mouth?
No
True or False — You should pass only the item someone asks for.
False — always pass salt and pepper together.
What should you do after finishing your meal?
Thank the host or cook.
True or false - It's polite to tuck your napkin into your shirt.
False
How do you know which utensil to use first?
Start from the outside and work your way in
How many bites of food should you cut at once?
Only one bite at a time.
If something is out of reach, what should you do?
Ask politely for it to be passed to you
Where should your elbows be during a meal?
Off the table while eating. Resting them is fine between courses or conversations.
How should you use your napkin during the meal?
Lightly blot your mouth; don't wipe or wave it.
Where do you place your utensils when you're not using?
True or False — It’s polite to blow on hot food to cool it.
False — wait a moment for it to cool naturally.
Should you take food before passing it to others?
No — always offer it to others first
What should you do if you don’t like the food?
Take a small bite, be polite, and don’t make negative comments.
When the meal is finished, where should you place your napkin?
Loosely to the left of your plate (never on the plate)
When finished eating, how should you place your utensils to signal you're done?
Together at the 4 o’clock position (handles at 4, tips at 10)
If you drop a utensil, what should you do?
Ask for a new one — don’t pick it up yourself.
If you’re seated closest to a shared dish, what’s your responsibility?
Offer it to others before serving yourself.
What’s a kind thing to do after the meal is over?
Offer to help clear the table and thank everyone.