Chinese Restaurant Etiquette: A Casual Guide

Chinese Dining Etiquette

The time spent eating in a Chinese restaurant is something special, for the food tastes different and colors brighten the tables. The etiquette, though, will add value to this special experience. This casual guide shows some key etiquettes one must follow during the meal in a favorite Chinese eatery.

Seating and Ordering: The Basics

Upon entering a Chinese restaurant, you may feel that it is somewhat different from the other restaurants you are used to visiting. First of all, waiting to be seated is a common thing to do, especially when the restaurant is busy. Be patient; this is respectful to the staff and other diners.

Once seated, it's time to have fun! Most of the time, one eats family style at Chinese restaurants, where dishes are in the middle and everyone shares. It is a good idea to order multiple dishes that everyone shares so that all tastes can be had. Don't be afraid to ask the server for suggestions while placing your order, either-they'll often know what is good!

Using Chopsticks and Table Manners

For those unfamiliar with chopsticks, don't worry! While it's perfectly fine to ask for a fork, knowing how to use chopsticks can enhance your cultural experience. If you need a few tips, remember to keep the chopsticks parallel and avoid pointing them at others!

Table manners also play a very significant role when having dinner at the Chinese restaurant. For instance, it is taken as respect and good manners when one waits for the oldest individual at the table to start eating before you join in. It is also stated that leaving little food on the plate may depict that the individual enjoyed the food, while cleaning the plate completely may suggest there was not enough food.

Dining Etiquette: Drinks and Tipping

If it is something to drink, well, there is always tea or some Chinese beer. Drinking with friends in China, as in many Asian cultures, people often pour for one another instead of pouring their own glass; this action implies friendship and solidarity.

As far as gratuities, each town is different, and so is each establishment. Some places require gratuities of approximately 15-20%; in others, it's already included in the bill. It's always wise to check what's customary in your area before leaving the restaurant.