Dining Etiquette You Should always keep in mind

Knowing the right dining etiquette can be key to making a good first impression when you are out on a formal or casual outing.

This goes beyond knowing the right fork to use or position to place your napkin, it reflects your sophistication and respect for other guests.

Mastering the art of dining etiquette can take your restaurant experiences to a whole new level.

Here are some essential dining etiquettes you should always keep in mind;

The way you dress is how you will be addressed

It is always advisable to dress properly for any occasion you find yourself so that you won’t feel left out, over-dressed, or underdressed. As the great saying goes ‘wearing the correct dress for any occasion is a matter of good manners.

Avoid African Time

Punctuality is essential in dining etiquette especially when other guests are involved. This is important when it is a formal or business dinner, arriving late can disrupt the flow of the meal and inconvenience your host.

Drop Your Phone and Dine

It is safe to say that the use of phone while out on a dining experience has become a worldwide pandemic. Not using your mobile phone in a dining setting is crucial as it is considered respectful. It’s always better to keep phones on silent or vibrate mode unless there is an emergency, as a mark of respect for other guests.

Close your mouth when chewing

Closing your mouth when chewing your food is the simplest yet one of the most important dining etiquettes you should know because no one wants to see or hear what you are chewing. Also, avoid talking with food in your mouth and take small bites to make the conversation easier.

Handle your Glassware properly

Knowing the right place to hole the wine glass is also an essential dining etiquette you should know and the self-acclaimed biggest food critic in Nigeria, Opeyemi Famakin has made sure of that. Hold the glass by the stem rather than the bowl to avoid ending up on Opeyemi’s Instagram page.

Excuse yourself politely

If you need to leave the table to go to the restroom or receive an important during a meal, excuse yourself quietly and place your napkin on your chair. There’s no need to announce where you’re going, simply excuse yourself briefly.

Cutlery Usage 101

Knowing the proper way to use cutleries is pivotal in dining etiquette. Avoid holding utensils like a shovel, your grip should be light but firm. When cutting your food, hold the fork in your left hand and the knife in your right. After cutting, you can either keep the fork in your left hand or switch it to your right hand to eat.