Chinese table manners
Chinese table manners
Chinese diet has a long history and the table manners are also having a long history too. Table manners are very important in Chinese people’s life. As the basic of all other ceremonies, table manners are the essential procedure in everyone’s daily life. They show whether you are well educated. Now I will talk about the most basic table manners with you. Before Dinner
Prefer round tables, which enable people to sit face to face. Through this way, people feel close to each other. The most important guest will sit facing the door. After the most important guest sit down, others take their seats.
Having Dinner
Every time when a dish is served, the most important people take the first bite. Sometimes, when there are kids, the youngest kid will take the first bite to show the care from adults. If you are sitting near the teapot, it is your duty to serve others tea. Usually, you start from the eldest/female. Do not stick chopsticks vertically in your bowl of rice. Because, this action is viewed unlucky and impolite.
Others can not stand up and leave the table until the most important people does so. If it is the host or the hostess that does the cook, remember to show your appreciation after you finish the dinner.
