DECA Dining Etiquette Quiz

Salads and bread are frequently pre-set to save time at large functions. When is it appropriate for you to start eating at a group meal function?

• When the host of the event invites you to begin eating.

• When you arrive.

• When the final person at your table arrives.

• At the scheduled time according the invitation or itinerary.

When you sit down at a meal function, is it appropriate to introduce yourself to others at the

table?

• Yes, but you only need to introduce yourself to those seated immediately next to you

• Yes, you should introduce yourself to everyone at the table as you will be spending the next few hours together.

• No, it is unnecessary as you will only be there for a meal and will not see these people again.

• No, people already seated should welcome you and introduce themselves before you

As a general rule, you should use your eating utensils from the outside to the

inside.

• True, they are placed in order of use from outside to inside

• False, you can use utensils in the order you please

• False, you will be provided only one set of utensils that you will reuse for each course

• False, all utensils will be lined up behind your plate and will be used left to right

Answer explanation

The only exception is a fish fork. This may be located to your upper right. No fish, no

fork.

Your bread plate will always be on your right and your beverages will always be

on your left.

• True

• False, your bread and beverage will both be on your left

• False, your bread will be on your left and your beverage will be on your right

• False, your bread and beverage will both be on your left

Unless it is critical, you should only leave the table between courses.

• True

• False, you should never leave the table until the end of the meal.

• False, you can leave at anytime you'd like.

When excusing yourself from the table, it is necessary to announce to everyone

where you are going.

• True

• False, you do not need to announce where you are going.

• False, you need to ask permission to be excused.

• False, you only need to excuse yourself to the person to your left or right

When excusing yourself from the table, you should place your napkin to the left

of your plate if you plan to return, and place it to the right of your plate if you are not going to

return.

• True

• False, place your napkin on your seat if you are not going to return

• False, place your napkin on your plate if you are not going to return

• False, where you place your napkin doesn't matter. Place all utensils on your plate if you are not returning

When passing the salt, it’s not necessary to pass the pepper with it.

• True, you only have to pass what is asked for

• False, they should always be passed together

You should never season (salt or pepper) your food until you have tasted it.

• True, wait until after you have tried your food first

• False, you can season you food at any time.

Answer explanation

Some managers feel this action indicates you make decisions without knowing all the facts.

Is It is acceptable to eat meat at a large group function if you are observing Lent.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

This is acceptable at any function that is considered a celebration. It is not necessary to obtain dispensation, but some guests may like to hear that dispensation has been granted.