Italian Phrases

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Italian Dinner Etiquette

Like in many European societies, dinner etiquette forms an integral part of Italian culture. Family and social events (weddings, birthdays…etc.) are often celebrated around a good dinner. For a foreigner, conforming to this etiquette is a good way to gain respect and acceptance. In general, do not decline dinner offers as this is considered to be very rude—unless there are valid reasons for not attending.

Gift Giving

It is a very good idea to bring along a gift when invited to a dinner. Chocolates and wine are good gifts but they should be appropriately wrapped. Gift-wrappings should not be in black or gold as this is used during funerals. They should also not be in purple, which denotes bad luck. If you plan on bringing flowers, avoid chrysanthemums (used for funerals) and roses (which have a romantic connotation). Wines should be of good vintage.

Dress

A formal dress is more desirable, even if the invitation specifies casual wear. This implies suit and tie for men and elegant dresses for women.

Punctuality

Timeliness is not a crucial issue. Fifteen to thirty minutes’ lateness is usually normal. However, when invited to private dinners, excessive lateness may cause much trouble to the hostess. This is because the first meal is usually risotto, which is served immediately after preparation. The hostess will usually time her cooking based on your arrival.

Table Manners

• Do not sit down until the host/hostess sits down or invites you to sit down.
• Continental table manners—knife is held in the right hand while fork in the left.
• Do not begin eating until the hostess does so.
• Wine will be served profusely during the meal. Do not drink in large gulps as this makes you seem uncontrolled. Instead take sips. The servers will continually top off your wine throughout the meal. If you no longer wish any more wine, leave your glass full.
• At first, take a small amount of food. Your host will thus have the opportunity to coax you into accepting a second serving.
• Do not leave your hands on your lap and do not put your elbows on the table during the meal.
• Do not use fingers to eat. Use knives and fork, even for fruits. This is considered more polite and sanitary.
• Place your knife and fork on your plate to indicate that you have finished eating and your plate can be removed.
• In many cases, you may have to refuse food persistently as a “no” is generally taken not to be definite in Italy. So, when you are full, politely refuse your host until she abandons the idea of serving you further.
• Do not, under any circumstances, leave the table before the meal is complete. At the end of the meal, wait for the hostess to leave the table before doing so yourself.

Following these fairly simple codes can make your stay in Italy more enjoyable as it will be easier to make friends.

From: www.italianphrases.org.uk