Dining Guide / When Things Go Wrong
Leaving the Table
If you need to step away, wait for a lull in the conversation, excuse yourself briefly and leave your napkin on your chair.
Try what you’ve read in questions based on real dining situations. · 6 min
Practice: Using Your Napkin
Key Points
- If you can, visit the restroom before the meal begins.
- If you need to leave, wait for a natural pause — between courses or after dessert.
- A quiet “Excuse me” is enough. There’s no need to say where you’re going.
- Fold your napkin loosely and leave it on your chair seat. It signals that you’ll be back.
Do
- Wait for a pause before standing up
- Pull your chair back quietly
Avoid
- Getting up while someone is speaking
- Explaining where you’re going
- Leaving your napkin on the table mid-meal
Handy Tip
Your napkin speaks for you: on the chair means “I’ll be back,” on the table to the left of your plate means “I’m finished.”
Customs That Vary
In some countries, the napkin goes to the left of the plate even when you step away briefly. When unsure, follow those around you.
Practice in a Lesson
- Using Your Napkin — 6 min · Practice in a Lesson
- Dessert and Coffee — 5 min · Sign in to unlock
Read next
Occasions where this helps
- Wedding Reception — You've been invited to a wedding
Sources
- Emily Post Institute, “Table Manners Video - The Napkin” — Where to place a napkin when leaving and at the end of a meal.
- Emily Post Institute, “Online Course: Dining Etiquette” — Seating, courses, utensils, toasts and conversation in Western dining.