Dining In An Authentic Chinese Restaurant: Etiquette Tips You Need To Know
Posted on: 29 June 2015
Dining at an authentic Chinese restaurant such as Ginger Beef Restaurants Downtown Food Courts Kiosks can be a wonderful experience. No matter what your tastes, you can be sure to find a Chinese dish that suits your taste buds. From more traditional foods like fried rice to spicier dishes like kung pao chicken, you'll be sure to leave feeling plenty full and satisfied. Before you head out, however, there are some Chinese dining etiquette tips you'll want to follow so as not to offend your servers, staff, or anybody else in the restaurant.
Defer Ordering to the Host
As a general rule, the host of the table is expected to place the order for the entire group in a Chinese sit-down restaurant, so don't be surprised if your host asks you what you want. Generally, the host is the oldest person at the table, but this isn't always the case. For example, if you're dining with a group of co-workers and your manager, then you should defer to your manager (the one with the most seniority) as your host--even if he or she isn't the oldest person at the table.
Mind Your Chopsticks
Most Chinese restaurants provide chopsticks with which to eat, though you might be able to request traditional utensils like spoons and forks if you're not comfortable using them. Should you choose to use chopsticks, however, be careful with how you use them--specifically when you're eating rice. A lot of people have the tendency to leave their chopsticks speared upright through their rice when they're not eating it, but in Chinese culture, this is a huge taboo, as upright chopsticks are thought to be a sign of death. Instead, set your chopsticks on top of your bowl or aside on a napkin when not in use.
Don't Eat Until Elders Have Been Served
Finally, when it comes to enjoying your tea and your meal, be sure that you wait until any elders in your group have been served before you begin eating or drinking. Not waiting is considered disrespectful to elders, who hold a great deal of clout in Chinese culture. To be extra polite, wait until everybody at your table has been served before you start to enjoy your meal.
By following these basic yet important etiquette tips, you'll be sure to enjoy your next meal at a Chinese restaurant. At the very same time, you can show your respect for the culture of China's people.
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