Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
for heaven's sake, don't announce where you're going; just
indicate your question quietly to your host who will show or
tell you where to go. Afterwards, sit back down at the table
without referring to your absence.
Keep your free hand on the table, not in your lap. This stems
from ancient times, when people carried swords and daggers.
Keeping the free hand on the table meant that you meant no
harm to the others.
If the dinner runs late, and the host asks whether anyone
would like an orange juice or some other non-alcoholic drink,
it is time to go. Don't offer to help with the dishes. Just thank
your hosts, comment on something that was particularly
delicious or enjoyable, then go home.
Dress appropriately for the occasion, even if you
are doing the cooking. Also make sure that your
dishes are 'dressed', with parsley or sauces.
Use cloth napkins, even for lunch.
If you are unsure of which wines or cheeses to
serve, ask the
caviste
at the wine shop or the
fromager
from the cheese shop for advice. The
cheeses should be at room temperature. Take them
out of the refrigerator at least an hour before you
are to eat them.
Learn to eat everything with a knife and fork, even
fruit. With a fruit course, make sure your guests
have the appropriate cutlery. When serving salad,
lettuce leaves should be small enough to eat;
otherwise you will notice that your guests fold but
never cut them.
Coffee is served after the cheese, fruit and dessert.
Offer coffee, decaf or an
infusion
(herbal tea).
You may clear the table of dishes no longer in
use, but don't do the dishes until after your
guests leave.
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