Around the World
Finger Foods
Do this, not that
Dining decoded
Table Talk & Tact
100

Mediterranean and Middle East cultures often use this in place of a utensil to scoop food.

What is bread?

(Naan)

100

Popular light meal using bread or tortilla to hold various fillings.

What is a sandwich or wrap?

100

These provide a foundation for the setting of the table; they should never be used to blot lips or wipe fingertips.

What are table clothes or place mats?

100

Table settings place the forks and knifes to the right of the plate and spoons to the left. Utensils are arranged so the diner will use this one first.

What is the outside?

100

It is impolite to begin eating until everyone at the table has been served.  Then wait until this person takes a bite to begin eating.

Who is the host or senior diner. 

200

It is impolite to cut pasta in this country.

What is Italy?

200

Originating in Italy, this bread dough is covered with meats, cheeses, or vegetables before cooking.

What is pizza?

200

An important part of the table setting; however, it is impolite to point with or wave this during the meal.

What is knife or utensils?

200

While eating, this should be on your lap.  If you must leave the table and plan to return, lay it on your chair.

What is a napkin?

200

Be present and focus on polite conversation during the meal; avoid using these at the table.

What are cell phones or electronic devices?

300

People in many countries including India and Ethiopia always eat with their __________ hand.

What is the right hand?

300

These crispy foods made from thin slices of vegetables, fruits, or grains, can be enjoyed alone or with dips 

What are chips?

300

These should never be on the table while eating, although it is acceptable to rest them on the table between courses or after everyone is done eating.

What are elbows?

300

Place your utensils in this position to symbolize that you are not finished eating yet. Place the fork and knife in the center of the plate with the tips crossed.

What is the resting position?

300

During a meal, this should be kept friendly, polite, and include everyone.

What is conversation?

400

In East Asia, you would probably eat with chopsticks, but should never do this with the chopsticks.

stick or stab the chopsticks into the food.

400

Type of dairy product produced in a range of flavors, textures, and forms; composed of proteins and fats from milk.

What is cheese?

400

During a meal in order to ensure a pleasant dining experience for all, always avoid doing this with food in your mouth.

What is talking with food in your mouth.

400

This glass is labeled number 4 in the diagram of a formal dining setting.

What is the water glass?

400

Etiquette is all about making others feel comfortable and respected.  Mealtime isn't the time for this type of discussion.

What are arguments or debates?

500

When visiting this country, you should not use the fork to place food in your mouth.  Instead, use the fork to guide the food onto the spoon.  Then lift the spoon of food to your mouth.

What is Thailand?

500

Although sometimes eaten with chopsticks, it is acceptable to pick up this food with your fingers to avoid causing the filling to fall out.

what is sushi?

500

If ordering your own food at a business or formal dinner, try to avoid this type of food. 

What are messy or hard to eat foods?

500

Placing your napkin to the left of your plate and setting your utensils side by side on the plate is a polite way to show this.

What is you're finished eating?

500

At this type of dinner, the conversation is most important, rather than the food.

What is a business dinner?