It is considered polite to take along a small gift for your host and hostess. Flowers, Mithai or cakes are always appreciated.
It is a good dinner table etiquette to serve the lady sitting to the right of the host first, then the other ladies in a clockwise direction, and lastly the gentlemen.
Once seated, unfold your napkin , place it in ur lap and use it for occasionally wiping your lips or fingers. At the end of dinner, leave the napkin tidily on the place setting.
Whilst eating, you may if you wish rest the knife and fork on either side of the plate between mouthfuls. When you have finished eating, place them side by side in the center of the plate.
If the food presented to you is not to your liking, it is polite to at least make some attempt to eat a small amount of it. Or at the very least, cut it up a little, and move it around the plate!
Do finish everything on your plate; it lets the host know you enjoyed the meal.
Desserts may be eaten with both a spoon and fork, or alternatively a fork alone if it is a cake or pastry style sweet.
Always make a point of thanking the host and hostess for their hospitality before leaving.
The Dont’s
Never start eating before a signal from the host to do so.
Loud eating noises such as slurping and burping are very impolite. The number one sin of dinner table etiquette!
Talking with one's mouth full is not only unpleasant to watch, but could also lead to choking. Definitely not a good idea!
Don't stretch across the table crossing other guests to reach food or condiments. Instead ask a guest sitting close to pass the item to you.
Good dinner table etiquette sometimes involves a degree of diplomacy when it comes to the host's choice of food. Even if you feel that you can do better, don't ever offer your criticism. If you feel unable to pay any compliments, at least remain silent on the subject.
Picking teeth (unless toothpicks are provided) or licking fingers is very unattractive.The only exception to the latter is when eating meat or poultry on the bone (such as chicken legs or ribs). In which case, a finger bowl should be provided.
Don't forget to make polite conversation with those guests around you. Dinner parties are not just about the food, they are intended to be a sociable occasion.
