Reader Digest Version Global
Homepage >

9 Butler’s Tips for Impeccable Table Manners

from Forbidden Advice
Loading
←
© George Doyle/Stockbyte/Thinkstock
  • 1 of 10

1. Let your food cool of its own accord – don't blow on it.

  • 1 of 10
←
© BananaStock/Thinkstock
  • 2 of 10

2. Don't spit unwanted food into your napkin – remove it with your fork and place it on the side of your plate.

  • 2 of 10
←
© Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Thinkstock
  • 3 of 10

3. Never talk with your mouth full.

  • 3 of 10
←
© George Doyle/Stockbyte/Thinkstock
  • 4 of 10

4. Don't hold your knife poised as if ready to sign a cheque, and don't point with any of your cutlery.

  • 4 of 10
←
© Hemera/Thinkstock
  • 5 of 10

5. A napkin is there to protect your clothes; use it to dab the corners of your mouth but never to polish your teeth.

  • 5 of 10
←
© Stockbyte/Thinkstock
  • 6 of 10

6. Never cut bread or bread rolls. Break the bread with your fingers and butter a small piece at a time. Breakfast toast is the only exception.

  • 6 of 10
←
© Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Thinkstock
  • 7 of 10

7. Be careful not to insult your host by adding salt before you have tasted your food.

  • 7 of 10
←
© iStockphoto/Thinkstock
  • 8 of 10

8. When you've finished eating, place your knife and fork or spoon and fork together, vertically. Leave your plate where it is – never push it away from you.

  • 8 of 10
←
© Digital Vision/Thinkstock
  • 9 of 10

9. Don't get drunk; you'll look absurd.

  • 9 of 10