Urgent Dining Etiquette: Miss Manners Addresses Meal Behavior

UPDATE: Miss Manners has issued important guidance on dining etiquette, addressing behaviors that disrupt meal enjoyment during gatherings. As the holiday season approaches, social interactions at the dinner table are becoming increasingly relevant, particularly with Thanksgiving just around the corner.

In a recent column, Miss Manners responded to a reader who expressed frustration over guests who pressure others to start eating before everyone is served. The reader, who practices the etiquette of waiting for all guests to receive their meals, reported feeling annoyed by well-meaning friends urging them to dig in. “I’m well aware that I could start eating, but I’m intentionally choosing to wait out of consideration,” the reader stated.

Miss Manners emphasized that it is indeed polite to wait for all guests to be served. The column reminded readers that while it’s respectful to wait, drawing attention to someone else’s lapse in etiquette could also be seen as rude. “A polite way to respond is to say, ‘Thank you; I will in just a moment,'” she advised.

In another query, a reader with an open floor plan expressed concern over a relative’s behavior during meal preparation. The reader reported that their aunt often hovers in the kitchen, sampling food and touching items before they are fully prepared, which raises hygiene concerns for other guests. Miss Manners suggested practical solutions, including using screens to limit kitchen access or assigning the aunt a specific task to keep her engaged.

Miss Manners also tackled questions about perceived rudeness at dinner parties. One host felt uncomfortable when guests inquired if the food was homemade. Miss Manners reassured them that such questions could be an opener for compliments and recommended a gracious response: “I did,” followed by an offer for seconds.

As the holiday season nears, these insights are timely reminders for hosts and guests alike. Observing dining etiquette not only enhances meal enjoyment but also fosters a respectful atmosphere for all involved. For more etiquette tips, readers can visit Miss Manners’ official website or submit their inquiries directly.

Stay tuned for further updates on dining etiquette as more questions arise during this festive season!