Dining is more than a daily necessity — it is a reflection of cultural values, social structures, and deeply rooted traditions. Across the globe, the act of sharing a meal carries distinct customs and etiquette, which, when observed, can foster respect, connection, and mutual understanding. This guide explores diverse dining practices from various countries, offering insights for those eager to travel with cultural awareness and grace.
Japan
In Japan, meals are approached with mindfulness and etiquette that emphasize gratitude. It is customary to say “Itadakimasu” before eating and “Gochisousama deshita” after finishing a meal, both expressions of appreciation. While slurping noodles is considered acceptable — and even complimentary to the chef — certain gestures, such as sticking chopsticks upright in rice or passing food directly from chopstick to chopstick, are associated with funerary rites and should be avoided.
Etiquette Note: Refrain from pointing with chopsticks or playing with them. Use the chopstick rest when not in use.
France
French dining culture is renowned for its elegance and attention to detail. Meals are often lengthy, social affairs, where proper table manners are expected. Keep your hands visible above the table — resting wrists on the edge is standard. Bread is typically placed directly on the table rather than on the plate, and using it to assist with food is acceptable.
Etiquette Note: Avoid asking for modifications to the menu or requesting a takeaway container, as both are considered inappropriate in formal dining settings.
India
In many Indian households, meals are enjoyed communally, often eaten with the right hand, as the left hand is traditionally reserved for hygiene-related tasks. Sharing food is an expression of hospitality, but personal cleanliness and mindfulness around communal dishes are paramount.
Etiquette Note: Always wash your hands before and after a meal, and avoid touching food or utensils with your left hand.
Italy
Food is a source of national pride in Italy, and dining etiquette reflects this reverence. Certain unwritten rules are followed with great seriousness: pasta should never be cut, and cappuccino is generally consumed only in the morning. Each course is served and enjoyed separately, without rush.
Etiquette Note: Avoid requesting grated cheese for seafood dishes, and resist the urge to order multiple starch-based dishes in one meal.
Ethiopia
Ethiopian meals are typically served on a large communal platter, with injera — a spongy sourdough flatbread — used in place of utensils. Diners use pieces of injera to scoop up various dishes. A gesture of affection and respect, known as gursha, involves feeding others at the table.
Etiquette Note: Always accept gursha with appreciation, and do not use your left hand while eating.
China
Chinese dining customs emphasize respect, particularly toward elders and guests. Meals are shared family-style, and it is customary to offer others food before serving oneself. Pouring tea for others and lightly tapping the table as a gesture of thanks is a subtle but meaningful practice.
Etiquette Note: Avoid turning a whole fish over on the plate, as it symbolizes bad luck, especially in coastal regions.
Middle East
Across the Middle East, hospitality is a cultural cornerstone, and meals are a time for warmth and generosity. Eating with the right hand is customary, and it is common for hosts to insist that guests partake heartily. Politeness requires a delicate balance between acceptance and restraint.
Etiquette Note: Declining food outright can be perceived as rude; instead, express thanks and gently refuse if necessary.
[Contributed By Anushka Gaikwad]