Using cutlery correctly during formal dinners or meetings is essential to demonstrate good table manners and etiquette. Here are some guidelines to follow and common mistakes to avoid:
Start from the outside: The cutlery is typically arranged in the order of use, with the utensils farthest from the plate to be used first. Begin with the outermost utensils and work your way in as each course is served. The soup spoon is usually placed to the right of the dinner spoon.
Work from the outside in: As mentioned above, the general rule is to use the cutlery from the outside in. For example, if a salad is served as the first course, use the salad fork, which is typically placed on the outermost left side of the plate. Then progress inward with the appropriate forks for subsequent courses.
Know your utensils: Familiarize yourself with the different utensils and their purposes. The basic cutlery consists of forks, knives, and spoons. Each has a specific function, such as the salad fork, fish fork, dinner fork, steak knife, soup spoon, dessert spoon, etc. Understanding their intended use will help you navigate the meal correctly.
Resting position: When taking a pause or finished with a course, rest your utensils properly. Place the knife and fork diagonally across the center of the plate, with the fork tines facing upward and the knife blade facing inward. This signals to the waitstaff that you have finished and allows them to clear the plate.
Avoid improper handling: Some common mistakes to avoid when using cutlery include holding utensils like pens or gripping them too tightly. Hold the knife with your right hand and fork with your left hand. Keep a relaxed grip on the handles, ensuring that your hand placement is appropriate for the type of utensil you're using.
Avoid switching hands: Once you've started using a particular hand for a utensil, try to maintain that hand throughout the meal. Avoid switching your fork or knife from one hand to another, as it can disrupt the flow and appear awkward.
Pace yourself with the host: Observe the host or hostess and follow their lead when it comes to the pace of eating. Wait for them to start before you begin eating and try to pace yourself accordingly. Avoid finishing your meal too quickly or taking excessively long pauses between bites.
Use appropriate cutlery for difficult-to-eat foods: If you're unsure about the proper way to eat a specific dish, observe others or discreetly ask for guidance. Some foods may require specific utensils or techniques, such as using a seafood fork to extract meat from a shell or using a soup spoon for consuming soups or stews.
Remember, good table manners and etiquette are about being attentive, considerate, and respectful. If you're unsure about a particular rule or technique, it's always best to observe and follow the lead of your dining companions.