8 rules that, when followed, will save us from committing a social faux pas.
Upon entering a party, banquet, garden party or corporate event, and even at an all-inclusive hotel, specific etiquette rules begin to apply. Regardless of which of the above events we participate in, there is a high chance that we will encounter a buffet. Do you know how to behave at it, what rules apply from the welcome glass of wine to tasting dessert? In this article, we will dispel any doubts and give tips on what to do to avoid a social faux pas.
The term "Swedish buffet" used in the Polish language is merely a customary term. The adjective "Swedish" only informs that it is about the way of serving dishes and drinks and tasting them at will, standing up, invented several centuries ago by the Swedes.
So how should one behave at a Swedish buffet? When we enter the party, a glass of wine or champagne is usually served as a greeting. Remember that we hold the glass in our left hand, because we will be greeting others with our right. Always and without exception, we hold the glass by the stem.
After the official part and the start of the reception or banquet, there is a break during which meals are served. And here, 8 rules apply, the observance of which will protect us from committing a social faux pas.
- Don't push to the table; a good host will prepare such an amount of food that it will definitely be enough for everyone.
- We should line up in a queue that, in the case of tables with free space on each side, should move clockwise, whereas when the table is against a wall - it should move from left to right.
- Do not reserve the queue for a group of friends - it is inconsiderate towards the people standing in line behind us.
- It doesn't matter whether you start with dessert or an appetizer, what's important is that the portions served should be moderate and not mixed together.
- Each time you go for seconds, take a clean plate.
- If you have a problem with serving the dish, simply put the plate on the table. Having two free hands will allow you to help yourself to, for example, a salad or seafood much easier.
- Pay attention to the size of the plates - small ones are for appetizers and desserts, large plates are for main courses.
- After finishing your meal, dishes should be placed in the designated area or handed back to the staff.
Using these tips, you will certainly do perfectly well at any party where food is served in the form of a buffet.