MADE LIFE
MAIN COURSE: THINGS TO DO DURING THE MEAL.
•
Quick Bites: Let’s get the easy stuff out of the
way: Sit up straight, elbows off the table and make eye
contact // Excuse yourself when leaving the table // Use
manners like “Please” and “Thank You”, because people
notice. // Always pass the salt and the pepper, even if
someone only asks for one.
•
Follow The Leader: If you are the guest, avoid
ordering the most expensive item on the menu unless it
is suggested by your host.
•
Out To In: For formal dinners, think about the
silverware on the table as the legend on a map. Each
fork, knife, spoon, etc. is a key to what type of food will
be served. Rule of thumb: Using your plate as the center, use the utensils farthest from your plate and work
your way in as the meal progresses.
•
No Phone Zone: The best two things to look
at during a dinner are the other person and the menu.
Use your phone sparingly, if at all, or try turning it
off so you don’t feel the pressure of feeling it go off or
seeing it light up.
BONUS: The dessert spoon and fork are usually placed
above your plate.
•
Be Inquisitive: Ask the server what their three
favorite items are. Asking them to explain everything
on the menu makes you look indecisive, but engaging
their expertise shows you’re friendly and may open up
unexpected options for you and your guests.
•
Eating Style: There are two ways to eat your
food with a knife and fork: European style and American style. European style means the fork always stays
in your left hand, while American style allows you to
switch the fork from left hand to right hand based on
what you’re eating. European style is considered the
most proper globally and may indicate your guest t
ravels.
•
Breaking Bread: Break off one piece of bread
at a time, butter it, eat and repeat. You may want to
butter the full piece or make a sandwich. But avoid
that…please. See, you noticed that.
DESSERT: ICING ON THE CAKE AFTER A SUCCESSFUL MEAL.
•
Check, Please: If you want to pick up the
check…make it smooth. Get there early, provide your
server with a credit card and tell them you’re taking
care of the bill. When that time finally comes, they
can take care of the tab seamlessly and present you with
the check. The thought that you’ve taken care of it so
covertly shows consideration (and a little magic) that
will definitely impress.
•
Split Checks: Because you called earlier, you
know if you can use a card or cash. If possible, have
extra cash in smaller bills to make change for someone
else. You won’t be the one holding things up and you
may help someone out. We call that being the people’s
champion and guests will remember.
• Farewell: Say goodbye to everyone, even if it
was a larger group and you didn’t get to chat with them
all. ◊
made-magazine.com
17