Etiquette and Chopsticks

 

When invited to a Chinese home for a meal, it's important to be aware of Chinese table manners. Several dishes are placed in the center of the table; wait until the host or head of the family picks up their chopsticks and signals for everyone to start. That’s the right moment for guests to pick up their chopsticks and begin.

 

Unlike Western meals, dishes aren’t passed around; everyone helps themselves from the shared dishes in the center. Each person uses their own chopsticks to take food directly from the communal plates to their mouth. It's considered rude to slurp, lick your chopsticks, or pick through dishes for your favorite pieces. Mothers often teach their children not to bite the ends of chopsticks, to maintain hygiene and appearance.

 

Sometimes, serving spoons or additional chopsticks are provided for transferring food from the central dishes to your bowl. Don’t be surprised if the host uses their chopsticks to place a choice morsel directly into your bowl—a gesture of hospitality.

 

Pointing with chopsticks, like with knives or forks, is bad manners, as is picking up other items while holding chopsticks. When you need to use a serving spoon or pick up a napkin, first put down your chopsticks, often on a small, provided stand.

 

When you finish eating, place your chopsticks down neatly, sit back, and wait. It's considered rude to leave the table before everyone is done. The host or head of the family will signal the end of the meal by rising and inviting everyone to leave the table.

 

Now that you know the etiquette, all that’s left is to practice using chopsticks. Next time you're at a Chinese restaurant or home, try using a pair—you might find the food tastes even better!