What Is Formal Dining?

Formal dining may take place in a restaurant or at a dinner party. The restaurant or hostess normally offers a five course meal during formal dining occasions.

Dress Code

When attending a formal dining experience, gentlemen should wear either a nice suit or a tuxedo, according to SanDiegoRestaurants.com. Ladies have the option of wearing cocktail dresses, ball gowns or evening gowns.

Food Offering

A five course meal consists of a soup, salad, fish course, main entree and desert, according to Louisiana State University. A hostess or restaurant may serve a sorbet to cleanse the palate after the salad course.

Conversation Etiquette

Diners should avoid conversing about subjects such as religion, politics and violence during a formal dining occasion.

Napkin Etiquette

After the host has placed his napkin on his lap, other diners may do the same. At the end of the formal dining experience, diners should place used napkins on the left side of the table place setting, according to Louisiana State University.

Considerations

Formal dining establishments often have service representatives on duty to check coats and offer valet parking services. Tip one dollar for each coat checked and two dollars for valet service, according to CNN Money.

References

• Louisiana State University: Dining Etiquette
• SanDiegoRestaurants.com: Dressing to Dine
• CNN Money: How Much to Tip