Dear Readers,
When you imagine a state banquet, images of a formal occasion with opulently decorated surroundings pop up. And with that, one might assume that the finest delicacies would be served. Think caviar, truffles, oysters…the epitome of luxury.
Yet oysters or caviar, despite their elite status, are often absent from such distinguished menus.
Why is that?
🍽️ FINE DINING MEETS INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMACY
State banquets are more than ceremonial meals - they are symbolic gestures of goodwill. Guests include heads of state, dignitaries, and cultural figures from across the world. These individuals arrive with diverse backgrounds, tastes, and dietary customs.
In this context, the goal of the menu is not merely to impress with extravagance, but to ensure every guest feels welcomed and at ease. While oysters may be considered luxurious, they also present challenges:
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Cultural or religious restrictions: Not all guests consume shellfish.
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Allergies and health concerns: Oysters are a common allergen and may pose health risks if not impeccably fresh.
- Practicality: Oysters require special utensils (oyster forks) and a level of familiarity to eat gracefully - which can lead to discomfort in a formal setting.
Therefore, menus are carefully curated to feature high-quality yet widely acceptable and easy-to-consume dishes. The emphasis is on hospitality, not complexity.
CREATING A COMFORTABLE ATMOSPHERE
For many guests, attending a state banquet may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience - and an understandably stressful one. Even without tricky foods on the plate, the nuances of formal dining can be unfamiliar and intimidating.
How should you hold your cutlery? When do you use which glass? What happens when there are six courses?
These questions are common, and the good news is: they are all learnable.
📘 BE PREPARED FOR ANY DINING OCCASION (NOT JUST WITH THE ROYALTY)
Whether you are preparing for a formal banquet, a professional lunch, or a casual dinner with friends, understanding dining etiquette is a powerful form of self-assurance.
That’s exactly what inspired me to create:
✨ Katarina’s Guide to Western Dining Etiquette ✨
A comprehensive, 25-page guide that walks you through the full dining experience - from the moment you receive the invitation to the final toast. The guide covers:
Dress codes and first impressions
Apéritifs and table seating
Napkin etiquette and table setting
Silverware use and dining styles (European vs. American)
Wine glassware and course order
Bread, salad, soup, and dessert etiquette
Digestifs
🦪 BONUS MODULE: A special section on "Tricky Foods" - including oysters, caviar, shrimp and more. So, if by any rare chance you do find yourself served oysters by royalty - you’ll know exactly what to do.