Dining+Etiquette

Chinese dining etiquette is based on traditions that should be followed as to not disrespect the other people at the dining table.

Chinese food is traditionally eaten with chopsticks, and there are several rules that should be followed when using chopsticks. A major rule is that one should not wave chopsticks around. However, the most important rule to follow is to not stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice as this is similar to a ritual performed at funerals. As most meals are served family-style, diners are expected to use either serving chopsticks or their own chopsticks to eat from the various dishes at the table. Using both ends of the chopsticks (the blunt end for picking food up and the pointy end for eating) is becoming increasingly popular.

There are also rules for drinking. One must never fill one's own glass. Instead, one must fill their neighbor's glass and their neighbor will fill theirs in turn. Also, when drinking (or eating), do not begin until the host does. It is incredibly disrespectful to not wait. Toasting is also an important part of a Chinese meal.

When eating, make sure to try at least a little bit of everything. The host will be offended if this doesn't happen. Also, when eating, do not eat everything on your plate. It tells the host that they did not provide enough food, which may not be the case. Also, do not take the last piece of anything. This is considered greedy and rude.

Conversation should be kept light and topics such as business, religion, or politics should never be discussed over a meal. Culture (art, food, etc.) is a good go-to subject.

Fruit signifies the end of the meal. Do not linger for very long after the meal is over.

When in a restaurant, one must never tip the waiter. This is technically illegal in China, so just don't leave any money behind.

http://www.etiquettescholar.com/dining_etiquette/table-etiquette/pacific_dinner_etiquette/chinese.html http://www.advancedetiquette.com/blog/cultural-awareness/10-tips-on-chinese-table-manners/