Buffet: 6 Basic Rules of Etiquette

When we find ourselves at a buffet, it is incredibly difficult to resist the many culinary temptations. We want to try everything as quickly as possible. But not everyone knows that there are etiquette rules that must be followed despite this democratic format of serving. We will tell you about six basic rules of behavior at a buffet, thanks to which you will stop catching the condemning glances of advocates of gastronomic ethics.

Buffet etiquette absolutely does not accept a disorderly assortment on a plate. Fish, meat, dessert, salad - all this should not be mixed! For main courses, appetizers, fruits and cakes you need to take separate plates. Yes, because of this you may have to go to the buffet several times, but everything will look decent.

Also, don't forget that you shouldn't put the extra on a plate that's already been used - if you want to eat more, take a clean one. This applies not only to plates, but also to cutlery, cups and glasses. A new meal - new dishes and clean cutlery.

At a buffet, you can see people who put more food on their plate to make sure there is enough. Often in such cases, something is left on the plate. Such greed looks strange, because you can always go up and take another dish you like. Never make piles of food on your plate. Take a piece or 2-3 spoons, and then, if necessary, repeat.

This rule has more than just an ethical component. Dietitians give the same recommendations to those who don't want to gain extra pounds. If you take small portions, it's hard to overeat and there won't be any extra strain on your stomach. In addition, it will allow you to try more different dishes in one meal.

One of the main rules of the buffet is to never take anything with your hands. Not only is it unhygienic, but it also shows disrespect for other people. There are different utensils for different dishes at the buffet. These are tongs, spatulas, spoons and forks of different types.

There is no need to doubt - even bread and cakes should be taken only with special devices. This rule also applies if you are taking exactly this croissant and do not touch the neighboring ones. People who are nearby do not see how you act, and they may be uncomfortable.

There is also a rule that determines how to arrange food on a plate. First, the main dish and seasoning are laid out, then the side dish, vegetables and greens. Meat, poultry and fish are placed in the center of the plate. The side dish is on the right or left, and the greens are on the top right.

If you plan to put sauce on it, leave some space for it on the top right above the greens - that's where it belongs. When you do everything right, you'll see that it looks nice and convenient. There's a reason why buffet plates are so large - they're designed for this kind of division.

In hotels you can always see guests who rush to the tables with food as fast as they can. They push others, as if they are afraid that they will not have enough. This is a sign of bad manners, giving away a person without culture. At the buffet, there is no need to rush. Wait until there is a free place, come up and take your portion.

There is no need to rush to the buffet, but you shouldn't linger there either. A person who stands for a long time at the serving area and chooses the best piece for himself does not look much more attractive than those who rush to the trays as fast as they can. There is no need to sort through the products - take the piece that is closer to you or on top and move on.