The Dining Etiquette Rule You Should Always Follow In Europe To Avoid An Embarrassing Blunder
When making plans to travel in Europe, experiencing the food is often a top item on our list of interests. However, it's wise to remember one important thing many of us heard from our parents at the dinner table: Finish all the food on your plate. Otherwise, you could make a blunder that not only embarrasses you but could offend your host.
It's true that European countries have different customs when it comes to dining etiquette, even when it comes to a foodie paradise in Spain that's home to the world's most famous cheesecake. In France, for example, bread is an important part of the meal and should be placed directly on the table right side up and not on a bread plate. In the U.K., always fill the cup of your neighbor to the right before passing the bottle of wine to your left. And in Greece, always keep your hands visible, resting your wrists on the edge of the table rather than resting them on your lap.
It's a lot to keep up with and it can get confusing. But remembering to always finish the food on your plate is universal. Leaving food behind indicates to the host that you were not pleased with their cooking. Leftovers of any kind could also be seen by some as wasteful.
Enjoy seconds, but don't take more than you can eat
Almost every host enjoys seeing a guest enjoy their dinner. So don't be shy when it comes to getting seconds of that delicious meal. However, be sure that what you put on your plate ends up in your stomach. Leaving food on your plate even after seconds can be seen as offensive in Europe.
It's also important to remember to not rush through your meal. While Americans are used to eating quickly, Europeans see meals as a social and leisurely activity and it's an important part of many of the cultures and destinations included on your ultimate bucket list. In Europe, make sure to take your time while you enjoy the food in front of you. Often, Europeans will linger long after the last of the food is gone and chat over after-dinner drinks or coffee.
The way you begin your meal is as important as how you finish. Wait to start on your meal until everyone has been served and your host begins eating. Before you take a sip of your drink, make sure the host has had a chance to make a toast. And remember, when you converse during the meal, don't do so with a mouthful of food.