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Interesting table manners from around the world
Here are some table manners from around the globe that are interesting to know for future reference.
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Each country has different manners in terms of dining. (Shutterstock/-)
D
iscovering other people's cultures and traditions can be fun as not only will you learn why they are doing things the way they do, you will also be able to adapt more easily and connect with them.
Below are some table manners from around the globe that are interesting to know for future reference.
Spain
Don't: Leave the table immediately after eating.
Do: Enjoy sobremesa.
Sobremesa means "on the table". The Spanish use their time to catch up and talk with others right after enjoying their meals. It's considered rude to leave the table straight away.
Thailand
Don't: Use only a fork to eat.
Do: Use a fork to help a spoon while eating.
The spoon is the main eating utensil in Thailand. Using chopsticks is discouraged, unless you are enjoying Chinese food.
France
Don't: Hide your hands under the table.
Do: Put both hands on the table.
In France, people care about what you are doing with your hands during dinner or lunch. Therefore, when your hands are tired, rest them on the table.
Hungary
Don't: Cheer with beer.
Do: Cheer with other alcoholic beverages.
It's an old revenge. During the Hungarian Revolution of 1848, Austrians used beer to celebrate their victory. This tradition endures.
(Read also: Embracing molecular gastronomy: A different dining perspective)
Mexico
Don't: Use utensils to eat tacos.
Do: Eat tacos with your hands.
It doesn't make sense -- as simple as that. Mexicans have been eating with bare hands for a long time and following the tradition is a proper way to respect them.
Japan
Don't: Put chopsticks on top on your plate.
Do: Rest your chopsticks next to the plate.
Putting chopsticks on top of your food is discouraged because Japanese consider this behavior to attract bad luck. (kes)
