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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.

Try what you’ve read in questions based on real dining situations. · 6 min

Practice: The Flow of a Meal
The Flow of a Course Meal

Key Points

  1. Once seated, unfold your napkin on your lap, and wait until everyone has been served before you start.
  2. Courses usually run appetizer, soup, fish, meat, dessert, then coffee.
  3. Some restaurants add a palate-cleansing sorbet between fish and meat, or a salad or cheese course after the meat.
  4. Cutlery is laid out in the order you’ll use it. Work from the outside in, one set per course.
  5. 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.

Practice in a Lesson

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