Customs and etiquette in Chinese dining
In China, eating is a very important part of their culture. There are certain customs and etiquette that people follow while eating together.
Firstly, it is important to wait for the eldest or most important person at the table to start eating before you begin. This shows respect and consideration for them.
When eating at a Chinese restaurant, it is customary for all the dishes to be ordered and placed on a rotating tray in the center of the table so that everyone can share and try different dishes.
When using chopsticks, it is important not to stick them upright in a bowl of rice as it resembles incense sticks used for worship at funerals. This is considered bad luck and disrespectful to the deceased.
It is also rude to spear food with your chopsticks or play with them. Instead, use them to pick up food and place it in your mouth.
When serving yourself or others, it is polite to always take a small portion first and wait for everyone to be served before going back for more. It is also recommended to try everything that is served to show appreciation for the hard work and effort put into preparing the dishes.
Lastly, it is good etiquette to burp quietly and cover your mouth with your hand if you need to. However, it is unacceptable to blow your nose at the table.
Overall, following these customs and etiquette while dining in China shows respect and consideration towards your hosts and fellow diners.
Firstly, it is important to wait for the eldest or most important person at the table to start eating before you begin. This shows respect and consideration for them.
When eating at a Chinese restaurant, it is customary for all the dishes to be ordered and placed on a rotating tray in the center of the table so that everyone can share and try different dishes.
When using chopsticks, it is important not to stick them upright in a bowl of rice as it resembles incense sticks used for worship at funerals. This is considered bad luck and disrespectful to the deceased.
It is also rude to spear food with your chopsticks or play with them. Instead, use them to pick up food and place it in your mouth.
When serving yourself or others, it is polite to always take a small portion first and wait for everyone to be served before going back for more. It is also recommended to try everything that is served to show appreciation for the hard work and effort put into preparing the dishes.
Lastly, it is good etiquette to burp quietly and cover your mouth with your hand if you need to. However, it is unacceptable to blow your nose at the table.
Overall, following these customs and etiquette while dining in China shows respect and consideration towards your hosts and fellow diners.