There are some things that you just won't learn in the classrooms of Penn State. For instance, your chances of getting hit with a trajectory object increase when walking in Beaver Canyon on a Friday night, and perfecting the art of falling asleep to blasting techno music. Similarly, when it comes to the rules of proper dining etiquette, there is no class to teach how to behave. Yet, in the "real world," manners at the dinner table can mean getting a new job or a second date. Some readers have asked for help. Luckily, I answered.
Dear Emily Etiquette,
I recently ordered a shrimp cocktail, but was very confused when the shrimp came served in an actual cocktail glass!
How do I eat the shrimp? With my fingers?
Your confused cocktail friend,
Drew
Well Drew,
The proper way to eat shrimp in this situation would be to pick up the shrimp with your fork, then take a small bite. Next, dip the shrimp in your cocktail sauce and repeat the process. It is just too difficult to try and cut the shrimp in such a glass, unless a plate is provided. But never use your fingers, except at a very informal dinner.
Sincerely,
Emily Etiquette
Dear Emily Etiquette,
Is it considered coarse to salt your food at a restaurant?
Sincerely,
C. Parr
Dear C. Parr,
It is my opinion the chef would never want you to suffer through the prepared meal. However, never, ever salt your food before you taste it. This is an insult to the chef.
Sincerely,
Emily Etiquette
Dear Emily Etiquette,
I ran into an awkward situation at an Italian restaurant. I was served a big spoon with my fettuccini Alfredo. I tried to use it, but all my attempts faltered.
Zack
Oh Dear Zack,
The spoon was served to help you twirl your pasta. The spoon is held in one hand, while your other hand twirls the pasta with the fork, on the spoon. You'll want to avoid ever cutting the spaghetti with a knife or fork. It is an affront to the chef. However, it is considered a compliment if you soak up the extra sauce at the end of the meal with a piece of bread. Good luck to you.
Emily Etiquette
Dear Emily Etiquette,
Okay, how do you exactly eat a clam or a mussel without offending your dinner companions? I love 'em, but I am terrified to try and eat 'em. Help!
Sincerely,
Billy
Well Billy,
You bring up a great point. It is perfectly acceptable to hold the shell with one hand and extract the meat with your fork -- even in mixed dishes. Please, do not attempt to cut the clam or mussel meat. And only at extremely informal settings can you lift up the shell and drain the juice into your mouth. However, I personally find this to be tacky.
Enjoy,
Emily Etiquette
Dear Emily Etiquette,
Okay, so what foods can you actually just eat with your hands?
Kimberly
Kimberly,
Here is a list of foods that are hand friendly. Don't forget your wet nap.
- Sandwiches, lobsters, corn on the cob, cookies, grapes, chicken wings, spareribs, crisp bacon, thin french fries, canapés, bread, frog legs, olives and dry cakes.
Emily Etiquette
