where to get table manners?

Question

I have a somewhat barbaric eating style..i got it growing up and was never instructed on how to eat in a more civil fashion. I've made improvements watching others and adjusting here and there but i'm not sure i'm always able to notice when I'm not eating so properly. advise would be appreciated.

Answer 1

This is a difficult one. There are some schools -- but not too many -- that teach etiquette, including table manners. But they can be pricey. There are books that might help. But, I think the best way is to confide in someone you trust who has the impeccable table manners you admire, and ask them confidentially for a little help.



There's really not an awful lot to learn. Some of the simple rules:

* When you sit down at the table (whether in a home or a restaurant), the first thing you do is put the napkin on your lap--even before you pick up the menu. Unfold the napkin halfway, not completely, and lay it across your lap.

* If you leave the table during a meal and will return, put your napkin on your chair, unless you're in a private home, then you can place it on the table. In a restaurant, a napkin left on the table means you are done with the meal; in a home, the host or hostess knows you'll be returning from the table.

* Learn to hold your knife and fork properly! This is my biggest gripe.

* In the US, we cut a single piece of meat, then switch the knife and fork hands and eat it. It's not done that way in Europe, and it's probably OK in many other places too.

* If you're buttering bread or a roll, break off a bite-sized piece, butter it, and eat it. Don't butter the entire piece before eating it.

* Learn how to set a table properly so you'll know which glass is yours and which bread dish is yours.

Hope this helps! Good luck! I admire your desire to improve.



You might take a look at the information here:

http://www.cuisinenet.com/digest/custom/etiquette/manners_intro.shtml

Answer 2

Years ago a lady would sit at the table and then take off her gloves. A gentleman would take off his gloves and then sit down to dine.It's been going downhill ever since that practice went out of fashion. Mouth open while eating, talking while eating, is never done. Knife and fork together on one side of the plate when you've finished. Simple things make for a pleasant dining experience for both. I blame his mum and dad, probably pigs an' all.

Answer 3

The basic rules of table manners are pretty simple.

1.) Don't chew with your mouth open. 2.) Don't lick your fingers 3.) Don't talk with your mouth full 4.) Use please and thank-you's for passing and receiving plates 5.) Place your napkin in your lap upon sitting down 6.) Use cutlery instead of your fingers 7.) Place knife and fork side by side at 2 o'clock with the handles upward upon finishing your meal 8.) Chew small bites slowly, and do not slurp 9.) Do not chug any beverage (esp. wine & spirits!) 10. Thank the host for a wonderful meal!

Answer 4

There are etiquette schools that teach this, even in Tampa, Florida. Look in the yellow pages under etiquette. I went to a one night dinner training class for about $80.00, meal included. I learned a lot and I thought it was worth it.

Answer 5

You could always try acting considerate would be my best guess. Think of others at the table and the ways how you wouldn't disturb them. Hope it helps a bit!