Entree Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts of Serving and Eating
When it comes to dining, each course has its own set of etiquette rules to follow. And while the entree may seem like a straightforward dish, there are still some important dos and don’ts to keep in mind. As a host or a guest, understanding proper entree etiquette can elevate the dining experience and ensure a pleasant and respectful meal. So, let’s dive into the dos and don’ts of serving and eating an entree with some practical examples.
Dos:
1. Do serve entrees from the left: When serving a meal, always remember to approach the guest’s left side and serve from that direction. This applies to all courses, including the entree. It is considered a basic rule of etiquette and shows respect to the guest by not crossing in front of them.
2. Do use the correct utensils: The entree is typically served with a knife and fork. The fork should be held in the left hand, while the knife is held in the right hand. The fork is used to hold the food in place while the knife is used to cut it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Do take small bites: When eating an entree, it is best to take small bites to avoid looking uncouth. This not only makes it easier to chew and swallow, but it also shows consideration for others at the table.
4. Do pass the dishes to the right: If you are serving family-style entrees, make sure to pass the dishes to the right. This is the most efficient way to pass food and prevents a chaotic passing of dishes back and forth across the table.
5. Do wait for everyone to be served before beginning to eat: It is considered impolite to begin eating before everyone at the table has been served. This is especially important for formal dinners, where everyone is served at the same time.
Don’ts:
1. Don’t put too much food on your plate: As tempting as it may be, it is considered impolite to pile your plate high with food. It is better to take smaller portions and go back for seconds if desired.
2. Don’t use your hands: Unless the entree is a finger food, such as a sandwich or pizza, refrain from using your hands to eat it. Always use utensils and avoid picking at your food.
3. Don’t scrape your plate: When finishing an entree, avoid scraping your plate with your utensils. This can be noisy and disruptive to other guests at the table. Instead, use a piece of bread to clean up any remaining sauce or gravy.
4. Don’t talk with your mouth full: This is a classic rule of dining etiquette that should never be broken. Wait until you have finished chewing and swallowing your food before engaging in conversation.
5. Don’t push your plate away: Once you have finished your entree, do not push your plate away from you. Instead, leave it in its original position so that the server can easily clear it when the course is over.
Practical Examples:
1. If you are hosting a formal dinner, make sure to provide a plate for the guest to place their used utensils. This prevents them from placing them on the table, which can be messy and unappealing.
2. If you are unsure of which utensil to use for a particular dish, always follow the lead of the host or the person next to you.
3. If you are a guest, be sure to thank the host or hostess for the meal before leaving the table. This is a polite gesture and shows appreciation for their effort in hosting the meal.
In conclusion, understanding entree etiquette is crucial for both hosts and guests to create a pleasant and respectful dining experience. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that the entree course is enjoyed with grace and sophistication. So, the next time you sit down for a meal, remember to serve from the left, use the proper utensils, take small bites, and wait for everyone to be served before beginning to eat. Bon appétit!