With China rapidly developing as a world superpower, and with high levels of immigration, Chinese culture is gaining prominence in western countries. Whether you’re doing business with people from a Chinese background, socialising, or even dining at a local Chinese restaurant, it’s always a good idea to familiarise yourself with the appropriate dining conventions and customs.
One important Chinese dining custom relates to seating places. The placement of a guest will usually depend on their status or seniority, with the most senior or high-status member of the group often seated at the head of the table or in a prominent position facing the door. If you aren’t aware of the particular seating arrangements of your hosts, wait to be seated to ensure that you don’t cause offence.
The arrangement of dishes also often relates to the seating arrangements, with the most prestigious dish, such as duck or suckling pig, positioned in front of the guest of honour or a senior member of the dining party. Usually a large bowl of soup will be placed in the centre of the table. It is also common for Chinese hosts to order or prepare too much food, as it is considered poor manners to let a guest go hungry.
In Chinese culture, it is polite to offer to serve other guests, particularly those who are older than you, before serving yourself. Where possible, offer to serve others around you from the central dishes on the table. If you would like to refill your cup of tea, for example, first take the time to offer to refill the cups of those around you before filling your own glass. Note that your hosts may offer to do the same for you; it is polite to accept any food offered in this manner. You may also find that many Chinese people tap the table with their fingers or knuckles when tea is being poured for them – this is a sign of respect.
The use of chopsticks is common at a Chinese dinner table, so it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with these utensils. Being able to use chopsticks is a skill that will be recognised by your hosts or guests. However, even if you have mastered the use of chopsticks, there are a number of etiquette rules to which you should pay heed. First, never stand your chopsticks upright in a rice bowl, as this is considered rude. Second, never tap your chopsticks against the side of a bowl or dish, as this is sometimes considered to be behaviour typical of beggars or other low-status individuals. Similarly, avoid gesturing with your chopsticks, or using them to spear food like you might a fork.
Following these tips when eating Chinese food or dining with Chinese hosts or guests will help both you and your dining partners better enjoy the meal.