Understanding Formal Dining Etiquette

What is the primary role of the host at a formal dinner?

• To eat first before guests

• To ensure all guests are comfortable and served

• To provide entertainment during the meal

• To sit at the head of the table without engaging with guests

In formal dining, who should be seated first?

• The guests

• The host

• The most important guest

• The person who arrives last

How should utensils be used during a formal meal?

• Start with the innermost utensils and work outward

• Start with the outermost utensils and work inward

• Use whichever utensils are closest to your plate

• Utensils are not used in formal dining

What is the purpose of a service plate in formal dining?

• To serve beverages

• To hold appetizers before the main course

• To act as a base for all other plates

• To serve as the dessert plate

Where is the napkin placed when you first sit down at a formal dinner?

• On your lap

• To the left of your plate

• Under the fork

• On the back of your chair

How do you indicate you are finished eating in formal dining?

• Leave your utensils in your hands

• Place your fork and knife together at the 4:00 position on your plate

• Place your fork and knife crossed on your plate

• Push your plate away from you

Which of the following is NOT considered proper table etiquette?

• Waiting for everyone to be served before eating

• Talking with your mouth full

• Using utensils from the outside in

• Placing the napkin on your lap

When should a guest start eating at a formal dinner?

• As soon as they are served

• After the host takes the first bite

• After the guest of honor begins

• After the first toast

In formal dining, how is soup typically served?

• In a small cup with a saucer

• In a large bowl at the center of the table

• In a shallow bowl and eaten with the soup spoon

• On a plate with bread on the side

Where should the bread plate be located in a formal place setting?

• Above the forks, to the left of the dinner plate

• Directly in front of the guest

• On the right side of the place setting

• On the same plate as the salad