In a world where dining etiquette can often seem as complex as a full-course meal, it's refreshing to hear a seasoned restaurant critic's take on what truly matters at the dinner table.

Many have seen table manners evolve over the years, and it's always intriguing to learn which customs stand the test of time and which ones are ready to be retired with the fondue set.

Sudi Pigott, a food and restaurant journalist with three decades of experience, shared his unique perspective on dining decorum.

While some may clutch their pearls at the thought of using fingers to mop up sauce, Pigott embraces this tactile approach to dining with gusto.

She's not alone in her thinking; a recent study suggested that many traditional table manners are now considered outdated, particularly among younger generations.

However, before you start thinking that anything goes at the dinner table, let's dive into Pigott's modern manners guide and see how it aligns with the sensibilities of our over-60s community.

Restaurant critic Sudi Pigott shared her opinion on table manners, which can be ignored, and which should be embraced today. Credits: Instagram / Sudi Pigott

Firstly, Pigott champions the practical over the prim, suggesting that a napkin tucked into one's top is far more effective than one laid across the lap.

After all, who among us hasn't experienced the dreaded drop of bolognese on a crisp white blouse?

While it may not be the epitome of elegance, protecting your clothing from spills is certainly a priority worth considering.

When it comes to eating with your hands, even in restaurants, Pigott admitted to using her little finger to enjoy every last drop of a delicious sauce discreetly.

While this may raise eyebrows in some circles, she argues it's a sincere compliment to the chef's skills.

‘I do use my fingers far more than strictly necessary—and perhaps acceptable,’ she said.

‘I would even pick up a particularly succulent chicken leg in a posh dining room, to the horror of my partner, and encourage others to tuck in equally gleefully.’

Pigott also encouraged diners to let go of stuffy rituals, such as the rule that dictates passing food only to the right.

In her view, such formalities are unnecessary and can even disrupt the flow of a meal.

‘While I believe all the practices previously mentioned are acceptable—and can be embraced in even the most rarefied social settings—if you are guilty of the following, then you will reveal yourself to be uncouth and uncultured, as well as lacking basic manners, and at risk of never being invited back,’ she warned.

However, there are certain manners that Pigott insisted on maintaining.

Knowing how to properly serve cheese, for instance, is a must.

Cutting the nose off the brie is a faux pas that can leave a lasting impression, as Pigott learned the hard way during a lunch with her former in-laws.

Other non-negotiables include not waving cutlery around while talking, staying seated during the meal, and refraining from double-dipping in shared dishes.

According to her, these actions not only show respect for your fellow diners but also demonstrate a level of sophistication that transcends generational trends.

Timing is also crucial as per Pigott.

She said that diving into your meal before others have been served, or clearing plates too soon, can disrupt the dining experience and make guests feel rushed.

And while technology has become an integral part of our lives, Pigott stressed the importance of putting your dining companions before your phone—a rule that resonates with many of us who value face-to-face interaction.

As we explore the intricacies of dining etiquette and table manners, it's fascinating to consider the diverse perspectives on proper dining behaviour.

Some unconventional approaches that have now been accepted prompt us to question the boundaries of acceptable behaviour at the dining table and the role of etiquette in modern society.

Meanwhile, insights from a former royal butler offer a glimpse into the world of refined hospitality, where treating guests with the utmost care and attention is paramount.

By juxtaposing these contrasting viewpoints, we can gain a richer understanding of the nuances of etiquette and hospitality in different contexts.

Key Takeaways

• Sudi Pigott, a restaurant critic, shared unconventional opinions on modern table manners and believed some could be ignored while others should be embraced.
• Despite breaking some dining etiquette, such as using fingers to mop up the sauce, there are certain manners Pigott views as necessary, like understanding cheese etiquette and not waving cutlery around.
• A study suggested that traditional table manners are considered irrelevant by many, particularly among younger generations.
• According to Pigott, proper conduct at the table reflects on a person's social skills, and ignoring basic manners can lead to being perceived negatively in social contexts.

What table manners do you hold dear, and which ones do you think are ready to be retired? Share your thoughts and dining experiences with us in the comments below.

 

[Veggiepatch]

You don't eat at the Dinning table

It is the exclusive home to a fruit bowl, which at this moment, has two lowly bananas in in it.

 

[oldchook58]

Table manners have gone sadly. You should never start eating before everyone is seated. No phones on table that really bugs me. Having the phone on their laps and looking or texting. We got a knuckle on the head if we had our elbows on the table with head resting in hand. A knife tap to the elbow if the elbow was on the table. Reaching across the table in front of some one excuse me please we were taught. That has gone out the window. I can't stand people up and down from the dinning table. Can we all please sit and chat and enjoy the meal and each others company. Someone is finished meal then has to rush off most likely to check the phone.
Clearing the table before everyone has finished whats the rush.
We had to ask to leave the table while growing up.
Not that l am suggesting we go that far, l have noticed good table manners have gone out the window. Even my own grandchildren have no real table manners. Which l find upsetting because their parents were taught table manners. Is it just to hard now not enough time?
Its sad. We were always told people would not want us back for a meal if we did not have table manners. It was probably a bit extreme but it worked on us kids.
Kind regards to all Vicki

My one and probably only pet hate is noisy eaters, and eating with their mouths open . It just hits my nerves

Same here, I have changed my seating position so I don't have to see them, it's enough to put you off your food. You can still enjoy your food and eat properly as well.