Arrival
● Make sure to reach on time or call ahead if you know you will be late.
● Do not place your bags, purses, sunglasses, mobile phones, or briefcases on the table.
● Keep your elbows off the table and maintain a proper posture.
● Wait 15 minutes before checking the arrival status of your dinner partners.
Table Setting
● When presented with a variety of dining utensils, remember the guideline to start at the outside and work your way inwards. When you have two forks, begin with the fork on the
outside.
● Do not talk with the utensils or hold them in a fist.
● Set the utensils on your plate and not the table, when not using them.
● Make sure to not order the most expensive item from the menu, unless the host encourages you to.
● Avoid ordering items that are messy or can be difficult to eat.
● Wait for everyone to be served their meals before beginning to eat.
During the Meal
● Eat slowly and cut a few small bites of the meal at a time.
● Chew with your mouth closed. Make sure to not talk with food in your mouth.
● Pass food items to the right. If you are passing off the food, first offer it to the person on your left, then take some for yourself.
● Pass salt and pepper together with one in each hand.
● Taste the food before seasoning it.
● Bread should be eaten by tearing it into smaller pieces and buttering only a few bites at
a time.
● Stir your soup gently to cool it, instead of blowing on it.
After the Meal
● When you are finished, leave the plates in the same position. Do not push the aside or
stack them.
● The person who initiates the meal often pays and tips appropriately.
● Always remember to thank your host for the meal.
1. Be mindful of the attire
Make sure you’ve dressed accordingly for the dinner. If you are going to a fancier restaurant, skip jeans and tennis shoes and opt for something nice. If you are not sure what the proper attire can be, ask the restaurant in advance.
2. Never lift the menu off the table
In a formal dining setting, one should never lift the menu. it should be always touching the table in one place. If you are looking at the menu, make sure that the bottom of the menu or at least one part of it is touching the table.
3. Keep your mobile phone off the table
While this may seem obvious, always make sure that your phone, keys, and other belongings are off the table. And do not take your phone out to text when in a fine dining setting. This sends a message that whoever you are texting is probably more important to you than the person you are dining with. Sending a message or an email can wait until dinner is over. However, if it is urgent, you can excuse yourself before taking your phone.
4. Keep the rim of the plates clean
Keeping the rim of your plates clean is out of respect for the service staff who clear the plates and have to grab the edge of the plate.
5. Do not push away the dishes
You do not have to worry about handling dirty dishes. It is a distraction and can make the table look a bit messy.
6. Do not use the napkin at the table as a tissue
The napkin should be used for blotting the sides of your mouth and gently wiping your hands.
7. Never ask for a to-go box
Do not ask for the leftovers. While doggie bags are okay for family dinners, they are not for professional or business occasions.
8. Never pull out the chair for someone
While it is okay to hold open a door for the guest, you should not pull someone’s chair out for them, irrespective of gender. It is considered inappropriate for a business setting.
9. Know the utensils
Each meal or course has its own utensils that are often in front of you or are placed in front of the dishes that are being served. Always begin with utensils on the outside and work your way in as the meal goes on. The largest fork is always for the entrée and the salad fork is smaller. The largest spoon is the soup spoon and the dessert fork and spoon are placed above the plate
or served with the dish itself.
10. Always say “please” and “thank “
As the guest, try not to complain about the service or food unless it is crucial. It can often seem like an insult to the host. Be polite to all staff members at the restaurant.
Final Thought While the above-mentioned dining etiquette tips are simple, they are likely to help you make a positive impression, ensuring that everyone has a pleasant dining experience. One of the best goan restaurants, ZBF (Ziggy’s by fame) is a treat to your taste buds. With a unique amalgamation of flavours and a well-curated menu of home-style Goan, Asian, and Western cuisines, ZBF offers the ideal setting and unrivalled service to enjoy a cosy dining experience with your family and friends. A perfect place for small gatherings and celebrations, we believe in providing a memorable dining experience for you and your guests. Discover a blend of flavours at one of the best restaurants in Majorda, South Goa with ZBF (Ziggy’s by fame). If you are in search of a true fine-dining experience in South Goa, stop by ZBF to enjoy the delectable fare.