Dining Etiquette:
The Art of the Table

Basic etiquette that should be followed at the table are of respect, courtesy, and awareness about people at the table. This can be started with the act of waiting for everybody to be seated and waiting for the host to let one know when to start eating. Use cutlery according to the table setting etiquette. Sit up straight, do not lean with your elbows against the table, and do not cross over to reach the food, politely ask if things may be passed across. Chew with your mouth closed, eat small bites, and never speak while you are eating. These simple dinner manners exhibit courtesy and enrich the dinner experience for all.

Handling cutlery is a major part of dining etiquette. In formal dining etiquette, the rule of thumb is to work from the outside in with cutlery. Usually, the fork is placed on the left side, while the knife and spoon are on the right side. For cutting, you use the fork in your left hand and the knife in your right hand. To signal you are done with your meal, place the cutlery on the plate in the following positions, cross the fork and knife diagonally or in an inverted "V". When you are all done, place them parallel to each other on the plate. Proper use of cutlery is one of the primary aspects of table manners, it shows your considerations for the people you are dining with.

Many individuals commit some general oversights that can undermine dining table etiquette. Never chew and talk simultaneously, nor use other cacophonous sounds like slurping, never text or play at the table, graciously concentrate on your dining partners. Be careful not to lean forward across others, just ask to have items passed to you instead. Avoid resting elbows on the table, and refrain from seasoning food before tasting it, as this can be seen as disrespectful to the host or chef. Fine dining etiquette makes every experience enjoyable.

Formal dining etiquette is more formalized. Each element in the place setting has to be identified, a napkin is positioned to the left and above the knife, a dinner plate to the immediate left, glasses to the right, and utensils. Wait for a signal from the host to commence eating and eat at the same tempo as the rest of the group. Follow the table etiquette rule of using the outermost utensil for each new course. In formal dining, you should have poise and grace, maintain eye contact, and contribute to soft conversation without raising your voice. Formal dining etiquette is about showing respect to the host and to the event.

Dining etiquette classes are useful for any person who would want to feel sure and not nervous in such formal setups. The key lessons one gets in dining etiquette classes include how to handle utensils and cutlery, how the placement of a napkin should be, the managing of multiple courses, and knowing when to start or pause during meals. Classes are also conducted on basic dining etiquette and advanced table etiquette in formal occasions that help an individual master social graces and dining manners etiquette. Knowledge of the etiquette of dining can uplift personal and professional interactions to leave an impression in any dining situation.