How to Be Polite at a Dinner

Whether you're dining at an extravagant restaurant, attending a dinner party or grabbing a bite at a fast food joint, manners matter. No one enjoys the company of a diner with no common courtesy. Brush up on basic etiquette skills to be a polite and enjoyable dinner companion.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Accept the invitation and gauge the type of meal you'll be attending. Select your outfit to suit the theme, time or location of the event.

2. Be on time for dinner. If you arrive too late, everyone will be waiting on you to start. Arrive too early and your host may not be ready.

3. If your hostess has planned an extravagant meal or dinner party at her home, bring a gift. Flowers, a bottle of wine or a dessert are classic offerings.

4. Turn your cell phone off before sitting down to eat. Step away from the table if you have to take a call.

5. Seat yourself after the hostess sits down and place your napkin on your lap. Keep your elbows off the table.

6. Take small bites, placing your knife and fork on the plate while you're chewing quietly and with your mouth closed. Eat a little of each course, even if it's something that doesn't appeal to you. When you're done, place your silverware across the middle of the plate and your napkin to the side.

7. Contribute to the conversation, but steer clear of controversial topics unless your host introduces them. Those small bites you'e taking will allow you to chew and swallow quickly so you can get back to the conversation immediately.

8. Thank the host as you leave. Consider sending a thank you note the next day to show your appreciation for the meal.

Tips & Warnings

• When you're unsure about table manners such as which fork to use when, follow the cues of the other diners.
• Don't bring a guest to dinner unless you've cleared it with the hostess beforehand.
• Never drink too much. You may have difficulty controlling your actions and upholding proper etiquette if you're intoxicated.