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Mastering Table Manners to Dine Like the French

The French are renowned for their appreciation of fine cuisine and it is no surprise that they have a set of intricate and polite dining rules.

Administrator

6 July, 2024

France is renowned for its exquisite and sophisticated cuisine, a true food lover’s paradise. Understanding French dining etiquette is essential to avoid any serious mistakes when dining with a French family.

Dress Code and Punctuality

When dining in France, it is important to dress appropriately for the occasion. The French value their appearance, and dressing well is a sign of respect for your host. Avoid casual attire such as shorts, flip-flops, or sportswear.

Punctuality is equally important in French dining culture. Arriving late is considered rude, so ensure you are on time or inform your host if you are running late.

Greetings and Seating Arrangements

Upon arrival, greet the host and other guests. Wait for the host or hostess to guide you to your seat. They have likely pre-arranged the seating, so follow their directions.

Table Manners

French dining etiquette emphasizes proper behavior at the table. Always wait for the host to start eating first. Chew with your mouth closed, and avoid talking with your mouth full.

When not using your cutlery, place your utensils on the plate, with the knife blade facing in and the fork tines facing down.

Use your cutlery in the correct order. If you are unsure which utensils to use, observe and follow the lead of those around you.

The French do not leave leftovers on their plates. They also use bread to soak up any remaining sauces on the plate, ensuring a clean plate for the next course.

Bread Etiquette

Bread is a staple in French cuisine. When eating, break off a small piece with your hands and place it on the side of your plate.

Avoid cutting bread with a knife or spreading butter on the entire piece. Instead, break off a bite-sized piece, spread butter on it, and eat it.

For cheese, use a knife to cut a small portion and place it on your plate. Avoid taking a large portion or cutting the pointed end, as this is considered impolite.

If you are served a French delicacy like foie gras, place it on a piece of bread, as you would a slice of meat, and bite into it directly, rather than spreading it like butter.

Wine Drinking Etiquette

Wine is an integral part of French dining. The way wine is consumed is given a lot of importance. Allow the host or server to choose the appropriate wine for the meal.

When pouring wine, only fill the glass halfway. Gently swirl the wine in the glass to release its aroma before taking a small sip.

Restaurant Bill Payment

In France, it is considered rude to rush through a meal or ask for the bill too early. Take your time to savor the food and engage in conversation with your companions.

In restaurants, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is customary to leave a small amount (around 5-10%) for exceptional service.

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Frequently asked questions

Some key table manners to keep in mind include: using utensils properly, keeping your elbows off the table, chewing with your mouth closed, and avoiding slouching. It’s also important to pace yourself while eating, and remember to compliment the host or chef.

When dining like the French, hold your fork in your left hand and your knife in your right hand while eating. Cut your food with the knife, and then switch the fork to your right hand to eat. Remember to keep your utensils on the plate when you’re not using them, and avoid making loud noises with your utensils.

Bread is an important part of a French meal. Break off a small piece of bread at a time and use it to soak up sauces or spreads. Avoid biting directly into the bread, and don’t use it to push food onto your fork.

When it comes to seasoning, the French believe in letting the natural flavors of the food shine through. So, it’s best to taste your food first before adding salt and pepper. If you need to add some, hold the mill a few inches above your plate and grind away.

When dining out at a French restaurant, it’s important to be respectful and mindful of the other diners. Speak in a soft voice, avoid using your phone at the table, and remember to show appreciation to the waitstaff.