Dear Readers,
Dining etiquette - one of the most feared subjects from the world of good manners - is actually not about being overly formal or memorising rules.
It is about showing respect to the host, to the meal, and to the people around you. The way we behave at the table communicates far more than we often realise and the secret to polite manners at a table hides in the details.
Throughout the years, I’ve noticed these 3 common yet quite big dining mistakes repeated over and over again. Let's dive into them today:
1. STARTING TO EAT BEFORE THE HOST
One of the most overlooked courtesies is waiting for the host before beginning to eat. When you start eating before the host is seated or before they indicate the meal should begin, it sends a signal of impatience and disregard for the host’s role. The host may wish to offer a toast, share a few words, or ensure that everyone is served before everyone ‘‘digs in’’.
Waiting for their cue demonstrates awareness and respect. On the contrary, starting nibbling on bread or other snacks before the host encourages the guests to do so sends a signal of disregard to the host’s planning.
2. USING THE NAPKIN AS A TISSUE
Nothing beats a calm dining experience suddenly interrupted by loud, elephant-like nose-blowing sounds…(yes, witnessed in person multiple times).
A cloth napkin serves specific functions: to rest on the lap (and catch any accidental crumbs), and to discreetly dab the corners of the mouth when needed. Nothing more. It should never be used to blow your nose or wipe it or sneeze into it. Doing so not only breaks etiquette but can be unpleasant and unhygienic for other guests.
If you need to blow your nose, excuse yourself from the table and use a tissue in private.
3. MIXING BEVERAGES
Many restaurants offer wine pairing with each course with the possibility to order soft drinks on the side. Water is usually also served throughout the whole dinner. With that being said, each beverage has a designated glass. It may seem harmless to top up a glass of wine with soda or water to dilute it, but doing so is considered a faux pas in formal settings. Each beverage served - whether wine, water, or a soft drink - is presented in a specific glass and intended to be enjoyed as it is.
Coming from Eastern Europe, the infamous red wine + Coca Cola drink still haunts me.
Mixing drinks not only alters their taste but can also imply that you do not appreciate what has been thoughtfully selected or served.
These three mistakes may seem small, but they reflect larger principles: patience, respect, and presence. Avoiding them helps create a smooth, gracious atmosphere at the table - and shows that you are someone who understands the rhythm and unspoken language of dining.
Of course, this is just a glimpse.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP: Master the Full Art of Dining
If this newsletter offered you a helpful preview, imagine having a full guide to everything you need to know before your next formal meal, networking dinner, or celebration.
Katarina’s Guide to Western Dining Etiquette is a 25-page eBook designed to take you from uncertainty to confidence. You’ll learn every element of the dining experience - from arrival to apéritif, from bread service to dessert etiquette, and everything in between.
Inside you’ll find:
How to dress appropriately
Seating and table setting etiquette
Napkin rules
Silverware and glassware use
European vs. American dining styles
Course sequence
Wine and drink handling
Plus a BONUS section on navigating tricky foods like oysters, caviar, shrimp, and more.
Let this be your foundation. Whether you are preparing for an important event or simply want to refine your daily table manners, this guide is your next step toward dining with confidence and ease.
DOWNLOAD THE EBOOK HERE