Dining Guide / During the Meal
The Flow of a Course Meal
A course meal moves from appetizer to dessert in a set order. Knowing what comes next keeps you relaxed and free to focus on the people around you.
Key Points
- Once seated, unfold your napkin on your lap, and wait until everyone has been served before you start.
- Courses usually run appetizer, soup, fish, meat, dessert, then coffee.
- Some restaurants add a palate-cleansing sorbet between fish and meat, or a salad or cheese course after the meat.
- Cutlery is laid out in the order you’ll use it. Work from the outside in, one set per course.
- When you finish a course, place your knife and fork together to let the server know.
Do
- Sit up straight, a fist or two from the table
- Keep pace with the people around you
- When unsure, follow the host’s lead
Avoid
- Starting as soon as your own plate arrives
- Resting your elbows on the table
- Putting your phone or bag on the table
Handy Tip
Remember “start from the outside, finish by placing them together,” and even a long menu won’t rattle you.
Customs That Vary
When resting your hands, Europeans usually keep their wrists lightly on the table, while Americans often rest their hands in their lap.