7 Unique Dining Etiquettes From Around The World

For most of us, food is a large and much looked forward to aspect of the travelling experience. But when you’re in a new country where you aren’t familiar with the dining practices, sharing a meal with the locals can be an intimidating affair. Each county has their own unique rules and methods of eating and it’s always helpful to familiarise yourself with these before you sit down for a meal. So come with me as I acquaint you with 7 unique dining etiquettes from around the world.

Thailand
 

In Thailand it is considered rude to put food in your mouth using a fork. Thai food is traditionally eaten with a spoon and a fork, though the fork is used to push food onto the spoon which is then eaten. If you’re eating at a restaurant, never ask your server for chopsticks, because Thai’s take pride in looking after their guests’ every need and if the meal required chopsticks they would have been provided.

Mexico
 

While dining in Mexico, remember to place your wrists on the edge of the table, as keeping your hands visible is deemed good dining etiquette. It is also considered rude to leave the table immediately after you have eaten and is advised to wait until a certain amount of time has passed. If you wish to leave the table to use the washroom, or take a phone call, it will be polite to wait till later.

China
 

When dining in China, you’re expected to leave a bit of food on your plate at the end of your meal. Leaving an empty plate signifies that you were not fed enough and are still hungry. Also never stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice as that is only done during ceremonial meal offerings to departed souls. Also, when eating at a restaurant don’t tip, as restaurants in China have a no tipping policy.

Egypt
 

Contrary to the West, where burping after a meal is considered rude, in Egypt burping loudly after a meal is considered good dining etiquette and signifies your appreciation of the food you’ve just eaten. In fact burping is often considered the highest compliment a guest can pay the host on the food prepared by them! Make sure not to add extra salt to your food, as Egyptians consider that unnecessary. Taking second helpings is also considered a sincere compliment and will make your host very happy.

Chile
 

In Chile, touching food with your hands is considered bad manners. All food items are eaten using cutlery- even food like pizza, fries and burgers. Also, make sure you finish all the food on your plate as this is considered polite. Once you’ve finished your meal, make sure you place your knife and fork to the right side of the plate. Another thing to keep in mind is that water is not automatically served at the table; you will need to ask for water if you want some. It is also considered polite to taste everything you are served and compliment the host on the food.

South Korea
 

When dining in South Korea makes sure you begin eating only when the eldest at the table has begun eating. Respect for elders runs very deep in Korean culture and even if you are extremely hungry it would be polite to wait till the eldest at the table has begun their meal. Remember never to rush through your meal and eat at the same pace as everyone else at the table, especially the elders, as this is considered polite and respectful.

Japan
 

Strange as it may sound, in Japan it is perfectly acceptable to loudly slurp your noodles while you’re eating. The Japanese believe that slurping when eating noodles and soup, is the best way of displaying your appreciation of the food and the person who’s cooked it. It is also believed that slurping improves the flavour of the dish. You may also drink directly from the soup bowl, as spoons are practically unheard of in Japanese restaurants. Any other unique dining etiquette you’ve come across from your travels around the world? In that case do share it with us in the comments section below. Bon Appetit!