by Karen Cleveland

I’ve just returned from a great vacation (good flights!) and clocked many quality hours eating and drinking languidly with fabulous company.

Upon my return, I indulged my post-vacation lethargy with even more dining out. Reflecting on my table time, now that I’ve finally broken down and bought groceries, I’ve been impressed and aghast by what I saw.

My 12 year-old niece ordering pad thai over lunch, absolutely charming the wait staff with her impeccable please and thank you’s. Adore.

This, juxtaposed with folks twice (three time?) her age, mumbling orders, forging simple please and thanks, their elbows on tables – oh my!

Even in the most intimate and casual of settings, which really, make the best meals anyways, don’t they, there are still some resolute savoire-faires.
· Say please and thank you. Repeat.
· Talk to your company or server, not your plate.
· Elbows? Call me old school … I know, I know…
· Unless your host insists, wait until everyone has their meal before tucking in.
· If someone is making a toast, even a long and enduring one, wait until glasses are raised before taking a sip (or swig).
· If you’re not happy with your meal, or there’s something on your plate that you don’t care for, no need to announce it to the masses. Take it up discretely with your server.