First, the table language differences
There is a big difference in inviting guests to dinner. In China, even if the food on the table is dazzling, the host will say, "There are few dishes, and the guests are not attentive. Please bear with me. " . The host of western countries will casually say "please help yourself to some vegetables", which seems natural and casual.
Second, the seat sorting differences
Both China and the West attach great importance to seating arrangement in banquet activities, and China people love the square table in traditional thought.
At the banquet, the elders or hosts, as well as respected people sit in the main seat, and other guests will sit in order. In western countries, it is customary to use a long table when entertaining guests. The host will sit at both ends of the table, while the guests will sit in order.
Third, the differences in table furnishings and use.
Chopsticks are the most important tableware in Chinese food. When using, chopsticks must be neatly placed on the right side of the rice bowl before eating, and neatly placed in the middle of the rice bowl after eating.
No matter whether there is food residue on chopsticks, don't lick them. When talking to people, put it down temporarily, don't put it vertically on the food, and don't scratch your teeth or pick things other than food with chopsticks. ?
Spoons are mainly used to drink soup, and sometimes they can also be used to hold smaller dishes. When taking food with a spoon, don't fill it too full, so as not to spill it and dirty the table or clothes.
After taking food with a spoon, eat it immediately or put it on your own plate. If the food you take is too hot, you can put it in your own bowl and eat it when it is cold. Never blow with your mouth, put a spoon in your mouth or suck it repeatedly.
When western tableware is placed, the tray is centered, the fork is left and the knife is right, the knife tip is up and the knife edge is inward, the spoon is placed in front of the plate, the staple food is placed on the left, the tableware is placed on the right, and the other utensils are placed as appropriate.
The number of wine glasses is equal to the type of wine, arranged from left to right, followed by strong wine glasses, grape wine glasses, champagne wine glasses and beer glasses.
Fourth, the atmosphere on the dining table is different.
The atmosphere on the dining table between China and the West is completely different. People in China pay attention to liveliness, so they often talk loudly at the dinner table. Although the atmosphere is harmonious, it seems uncivilized to westerners. Western table manners pay attention to etiquette and cultivation, and the whole dining process should be very quiet and elegant.
5. Differences in diet culture and habits
When entertaining guests, China hosts usually attach great importance to them. The dishes on the table are generally exquisite and precious, paying attention to the collocation and color of meat and vegetables. In families with high status or cultural level, even the names of dishes have special meanings.
Western countries value time more and work on the principle of efficiency, so fast food restaurants are very popular. Even when entertaining guests, the host's preparation is very different from that in China. The main course is probably a few rare but precious vegetables.