When the pace of life accelerates and we often eat meals on the run, it is easy to forget about the basic rules of savoir-vivre. However, it is worth remembering that elegant behavior at the table is not only a sign of good manners, but also respect for hosts and fellow diners. One of the elements worth paying attention to is the way you put away the cutlery after finishing the meal.
Why actually signal the end of a meal?
Putting cutlery on the plate after a meal is not only a matter of aesthetics, but above all a form of communication with the staff. Thanks to the proper arrangement of cutlery, the waiter knows whether he can already take the plate or whether the guests have not yet finished eating. It is a discreet signal that avoids misunderstandings and ensures smooth operation.
How to put away cutlery correctly?
There are several ways to arrange cutlery on the plate that signal the end of the meal. The most common of them is to place the knife and fork parallel to each other, with the knife blade facing inwards, with the handles facing the lower right corner of the platter (at 5:20 a.m.). The fork can be placed with the back up or down – both versions are correct.
Other ways to signal the end of a meal:
- Fork and knife crossed on a plate: The fork is placed on the knife, forming the letter “X”. This method is less formal and more often used in informal situations.
- Fork and knife aligned parallel, perpendicular to the edge of the table: The handles of the cutlery are directed towards the person sitting opposite. This method is popular in English-speaking countries.
What to avoid?
- Leaning the cutlery against the edge of the plate: This signals that the meal is still in progress.
- Placing cutlery on the table after use: We always put the cutlery on the plate, even if we have not used it.
- Leaving the knife and fork in the “eighth” position: This signals dissatisfaction with the meal.
Additional rules of savoir-vivre at the table
In addition to putting away cutlery correctly, it is worth remembering other rules of table etiquette:
- We don’t start eating until everyone has had their dishes.
- We use cutlery from the outside to the inside.
- We don’t speak with our mouths full.
- We do not gesture with cutlery.
- We do not rest our elbows on the table.
- Break the bread with your hands, not cut it with a knife.
- Eat the soup silently, scooping it from you with a spoon.
Etiquette in different cultures
It is worth remembering that the rules of savoir-vivre may vary depending on the country and culture. In some countries, such as Japan, chopsticks are put away on a special stand after a meal, not on a plate. Before going abroad, it is worth familiarizing yourself with local customs to avoid blunders.
Summary
Putting away cutlery correctly after a meal is an important element of etiquette, which proves our good manners and respect for others. It is worth knowing these rules and applying them in practice, both in formal and informal situations.
