Using utensils at a formal dining event can seem intimidating, but it follows a specific etiquette to ensure a smooth and sophisticated dining experience. Here's a guide on how to properly use utensils at a formal event:
Napkin: Place the napkin on your lap immediately after being seated. Use it to dab your mouth when necessary, and always remember to blot, not wipe, to avoid making a mess.
Silverware/Flatware:
- Forks: Start with the outermost fork and work your way inward with each course. The salad fork is usually the first fork on the left, followed by the dinner fork. If a fish course is served, there may be a specialized fish fork.
- Knives: The knife is placed on the right side of the plate with the blade facing inward. Like the forks, use the knife from the outside in with each course. A butter knife may be placed on the bread plate.
- Spoons: Spoons are placed to the right of the knife. The soup spoon is the outermost spoon, and if dessert requires a spoon, it will be placed above the plate or brought out with the dessert.
Using Cutlery:
- Continental Style: This is the most widely accepted style. Hold the fork in your left hand and the knife in your right hand throughout the meal. Cut small pieces of food and bring them to your mouth using the fork with the tines facing downward. The knife is not used for lifting food to the mouth.
- American Style: This style involves switching the fork to your right hand after cutting, and then eating with the fork tines facing upward.
Handling Utensils between Bites: When taking a break during the meal or engaging in conversation, place your knife and fork together at the 4 o'clock position on the plate (blade facing inward, fork tines down). This indicates to the waitstaff that you're not finished with your meal.
Passing Items: If someone asks for a salt shaker, bread, or any other item, always pass it along with the handle facing them. Avoid reaching across the table; instead, ask for items to be passed to you.
Soup Etiquette: When eating soup, dip the spoon away from you, filling it only about two-thirds full. Sip the soup quietly and avoid slurping.
Bread and Butter: Break off small pieces of bread and butter them individually rather than buttering the entire slice at once. Place your buttered bread on your side plate instead of directly on the table.
Dessert Utensils: If dessert requires a fork and spoon, use them simultaneously, with the spoon in your right hand and the fork in your left.
Finishing the Meal: When you're finished with your meal, place your utensils together at the 4 o'clock position on the plate.
Final Gesture: When you have finished the entire meal, gently place your napkin on the table to the left of your plate.
Remember, formal dining etiquette is all about showing respect and consideration to your fellow diners and the host. Practicing these guidelines will help you feel more comfortable and confident during formal dining events.