Category Archives: Dining Etiquette

What Does “A`la carte” Mean?

A`la carte means each item on the menu is priced separately. For example, if you order a steak and want a salad and twice baked potato as well, you will be charged a separate price for each item ordered.

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Someone Else Is Using Your Bread Plate!

I am frequently asked, “What should I do if the person sitting next to me unknowingly uses my bread plate?” The last thing we want to do is embarrass this person by pointing out their mistake.  Simply say nothing and … Continue reading

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Attire For the Captain’s Dinner

If you are vacationing on a cruise and invited to the Captain’s Dinner, formal attire is required.

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A Tutorial For Eating Superbowl Party Snacks and Foods

Superbowl Sunday is second when it comes to Americans consuming the greatest amount of food in a day during the year.  Thanksgiving Day is first. As we all know, Superbowl Sunday foods are much more casual and fun than those … Continue reading

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A Wine Glass Tip For Casual Entertaining

A recently married client told me she would like to host a dinner party, but had to wait until she could afford to purchase the appropriate crystal to serve wine in. It is true there a specific shaped glasses for … Continue reading

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Being Seated For Lunch or Dinner

As I watched the Presidential Inauguration of Barack Obama, I was very surprised to see the difficulty the banquet managers had getting the guests to take their seats at the Inaugural Luncheon.  While millions of Americans watched, political officials, high … Continue reading

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Conversing With Other Guests at Dinner

You are obligated to converse with the people on each side of you at a formal dinner.  It would be rude to sit next to someone and not speak with them. 1) If the people seated next to you are … Continue reading

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Dining Etiquette – Should You Order an Alcoholic Beverage?

If you are dining out and not sure if you should order an alcoholic beverage, follow the lead from others at your table. If you are the first to order, play it safe and order a non-alcoholic beverage such as … Continue reading

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Tipping Musicians

A pianist, or strolling musician, should be tipped $1 for each special request of music.  You may also want to tip a musician a minimum of $1 as you leave the restaurant even if they did not play a special … Continue reading

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Which Shaker is for Salt and Which is for Pepper?

Salt should be placed in the shaker with fewer and larger holes so the large granules pass through the holes easily. Ground pepper is placed in the shaker with more and smaller holes.

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