10 Rules Of Dining Etiquette from Around The World You Should Know

People all over the world have formed a unique table etiquette and dining etiquette tradition. 

Just like any other form of etiquette, it is very important to respect and observe these customs when traveling abroad.

Dining abroad is often uncomfortable because there are so many unfamiliar rules and foods. 

The following are some very specific considerations from all over the world, which you should understand before traveling.

1. Never order a cappuccino after a meal in Italy

Never order milk drinks after meals, because milk is thought to hinder digestion. 

Instead, they insist on using espresso or black coffee, which is considered a digestive agent. 

Ordering a cappuccino will not cause anger, but it will definitely mark you as a tourist.

2. Never stick your chopstick upright in a bowl of rice

In Japanese culture, chopsticks are placed vertically in rice, used for sacrifices to the dead and funerals. 

Therefore, it is considered impolite and inauspicious to do so during the meal.

3. If a full fish is served in China ne'er flip it over

Don’t flip the fish over when intake one aspect, as this is often aforesaid to tally a wreck boat and it's thought of dangerous luck. 

So, if you would like to complete the opposite aspect of your fish, take away the bones and continue intake on to the opposite aspect.

4. In Thailand, don’t use your fork to place food in your mouth

When you’re in Thailand, intake with a fork is seen as unacceptable. 

Instead, you’re expected to use the fork to push the food onto a spoon and use that to eat with.

5. Don’t ask salt or pepper in Portugal

If salt and pepper aren’t provided on the table, don’t ask fr them, because it is taken into account insulting to the seasoning skills of the cook.

6. Don’t expect a full cup of tea in Kazakhstan

If your host in Kazakhstan serves you a cup of tea that's solely full, don’t feel bad.     

It's an honest sign, in contrast to a full cup of tea that's seen as a symptom that the host would possibly need you to depart.

7. In Italy, don’t add further condiments to your pizza pie

Also in Italy, don’t ever provoke cheese, ketchup, or alternative condiments to place on your pizza pie if they aren’t offered to you.

8. In India, always eat with your right hand 

In India, and across the Middle East and parts of Africa, always make sure to use your right hand to eat meals, as the left hand is considered unclean. 

Also, don’t actually put the fingers in your mouth; use your thumb to push the food in.

9. Don’t eat your bread before your food in France

In France, if bread is put on the table, it is not an appetizer; it’s meant to accompany your food. 

You’re meant to tear off pieces and use it to push food onto the fork or to mop up sauces.

10. Don’t offer to split the bill in France

Eating out is a fairly common occurrence in France. 

But, whether you’re out with friends or acquaintances, splitting the bill is considered highly unsophisticated. 

Either offer to pay the bill fully or let someone else do so.

Do you know any other rules of dining etiquette that are surprising or good to know? 

If so, be sure to share them in the comments below.

Hatsuko A word after a word after a word is power.