Tips for dining etiquette in France

Dining etiquette in France is marked by traditions of politeness, respect, and subtle social codes. Here are some key tips for dining etiquette in France:

• Keep your hands visible on the table (but not elbows) at all times, resting hands casually on each side of your plate. This shows good manners dating back to medieval times.
• Use your knife in your right hand and fork in your left throughout the meal, using the knife to help push food onto the fork. Avoid stabbing food with your fork.
• Wait for the host or hostess to say “Bon appétit” before starting to eat or drink. Starting early is considered impolite.
• In formal settings, men typically pour wine for women sitting next to them; a woman pouring her own wine when men are present may be considered impolite.
• Eat quietly without slurping, loud chewing, or burping, and keep your voice and laughter at a moderate level, especially in upscale restaurants.
• Tear bread gently by hand and use it to help push food onto your fork; avoid making sandwiches or spreading butter on bread during dinner.
• Finish the food on your plate to show appreciation to the host, but avoid asking for seconds unless offered.
• Do not put your hands under the table or on your lap; instead rest them gracefully on the table, but no elbows.
• Wait for everyone at the table to be served before you start eating, unless instructed otherwise.
• Politely ask for items to be passed to you instead of reaching across others.
• Use a napkin placed on your lap during the meal, and if you leave temporarily, place it on your chair.
• Avoid using your phone at the table as it is considered rude.
• When finishing, place your knife and fork together on the plate pointing toward the upper left to signal you are done to the staff.

Following these guidelines will help navigate French dining culture with grace and respect, whether at a formal dinner, a friend’s home, or a restaurant. ^{2, 4, 6, 10}

References

• [Tuesday Tip #4] “Garçon !” and other restaurant etiquette tips

• Mastering French Table Etiquette

• French Dining Etiquette: Restaurant Dining Like a Local

• French Table Etiquette: A Quick Guide | Taste of France®

• French Table Manners EVERYONE Should Learn Once And For ALL.

• A Quick Guide to French Table Etiquette

• French Dining Etiquette: 7 Rules You’ll Wish You Knew Before Visiting France

• French Dining Etiquette At Home: Eating with the Frenchies

• French etiquette: A guide to dining, eating, social settings & …

• Etiquette: 10 essential French table manners