By molly atherton
9 months ago
Welcome, curious gastronomes and etiquette enthusiasts, to a culinary carnival of the eccentric! Buckle up your taste buds and prepare for a delightful journey through the bewildering landscape of global food customs. From the intriguing to the downright eyebrow-raising, we unveil the world's most bizarre food etiquette rules that might make you gasp, giggle, or perhaps even grab your fork in disbelief. So, grab a seat at this whimsical banquet of cultural quirks.
1. China - Don't finish ALL your food
Indeed, the cultural nuances surrounding finishing a meal can vary dramatically from one place to another. While polishing off your plate might be hailed as a sign of appreciation and contentment in many corners of the globe, the Chinese dining etiquette takes a fascinating twist.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/thekitca-dumplings-feature-705x849-1.jpg)
2. India - Don't thank friends/family for food
In the intricate fabric of Indian social interactions, the art of expressing gratitude dances to a different rhythm, one that may seem counterintuitive to those unfamiliar with its cultural nuances. While saying "thank you" might be an automatic reflex in many societies...![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/1469616595-6882508-scaled.jpg)
3. Russia - Never refuse vodka
Ah, the storied world of Russian vodka etiquette! In the land where this fiery elixir holds a place of reverence, navigating the rules surrounding its consumption is akin to mastering a dance—a nuanced choreography of tradition and respect.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-128-scaled.jpg)
4. France - Don't eat bread as an appetizer
Ah, the French and their culinary finesse! In the gastronomic ballet of France, where every bite is a symphony of flavors, even the humble bread roll takes center stage in the performance of dining etiquette.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/OIP-85.jpg)
5. Jordan - Tilt the coffee cup
Jordanian coffee culture is a delightful blend of tradition, hospitality, and a subtle dance of signals woven into every sip. In the heart of this cultural ritual lies the unspoken language of the coffee cup—a vessel that communicates not just taste but also unspoken cues between guest and host.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/344c4f253a0bbbad881e825b906c30ce.jpg)
6. Chile - Don't eat with your hands
In the vibrant culinary scene of Chile, where every dish carries a tale of tradition and flavor, the etiquette of dining extends beyond taste to encompass a graceful choreography of utensils—a symphony of knife and fork.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/6301424915_e02edea7d7_b.webp)
7. Brazil - Use your meat tokens accordingly
Welcome to the carnivorous paradise of Brazilian churrascarias, where meat lovers revel in an endless procession of succulent cuts and a dining experience guided by the silent language of tokens—green for "more, please," and red for "I'm content."![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-129-e1666006267474.jpg)
8. Italy - Never eat pasta using a knife and fork
Ah, the exquisite ballet of pasta etiquette in Italy! Picture yourself in an Italian trattoria, surrounded by the tantalizing aroma of freshly cooked pasta. As you twirl your fork, navigating the delicate strands of spaghetti, remember: the knife is an outsider in this culinary dance.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/fd3de357-aae1-41b3-8c45-3a73a52c85ad.jpg)
9. Korea - Eat when an elder eats
Absolutely, in many Asian cultures, particularly those with strong Confucian influences like Korea or China, dining etiquette isn't just about the food on the table; it's a reflection of respect, hierarchy, and social harmony. The dynamics of the dining setting are intricately woven with unspoken rules...![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/8eae3467a0df318702f4a311740af87e.jpg)
10. Britain - Pass the Port to your left
Ah, the elegant ritual of passing port, steeped in a tradition that navigates its way through history and maritime lore. Picture yourself in a refined setting, surrounded by a gathering where the clinking of glasses and the aroma of aged port wine mingle in the air.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Port-tasting.webp)
11. Mexico - Eat tacos with your hands
Ah, welcome to the vibrant world of Mexican street food, where the taco reigns supreme as the embodiment of flavor, culture, and unbridled joy. In this bustling culinary landscape, forget the constraints of fine dining etiquette; it's time to dive in, hands-first.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/OIP-86.jpg)
12. Georgia - Don't sip your wine
Ah, the spirited tradition of toasting and imbibing in the exuberant gatherings known as Supras, where the clinking of glasses and the harmonious symphony of voices intertwine in celebration. In the heart of Georgian culture, the art of wine drinking takes on a spirited and communal form.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/DSC_9512.jpg)
13. South India - Don't eat with your left hand
Indeed, in the rich tapestry of South Indian customs and traditions, the etiquette surrounding hand usage holds deep cultural significance, where the right hand reigns supreme as the honored conductor of culinary indulgence, while the left hand occupies a distinctly different role.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/maxresdefault-18.jpg)
14. Japan - Don't leave your chopsticks stuck in your rice
Absolutely, the seemingly innocuous act of leaving chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice carries deep cultural significance in many East Asian societies, particularly in Japan, where it's intricately tied to funerary customs and therefore holds solemn implications.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Buta-Donburi-update-31-1024x683-1.jpg)
15. Thailand - Use the spoon to eat only
The culinary realm of Thailand is a mesmerizing blend of flavors, traditions, and an intricate tapestry of dining customs. In this vibrant cultural landscape, the art of eating transcends mere sustenance; it’s a dance of flavors orchestrated by the spoon, the utensil of choice that holds sway over the dining etiquette.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-130.jpg)
16. China - Don't flip the fish
In the colorful tapestry of Chinese culinary traditions, cooking fish takes on a unique significance beyond the flavors and techniques—it's a delicate dance intertwined with symbolism, superstition, and a belief in auspiciousness.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-131.jpg)
17. Hungary - Don't clink glasses during a cheers
Ah, the nuanced art of toasting in Hungary, where the act of clinking glasses during a cheers transcends mere celebration; it’s a gesture steeped in history, tradition, and a cultural sensitivity that navigates the subtleties of social interaction.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-132.jpg)
18. Thailand - Don't order food in a group
In the vibrant tapestry of Thai dining customs, the dynamics of ordering food in a group setting transcend mere selection and become a subtle yet significant reflection of hierarchy, respect, and communal harmony.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-133.jpg)
19. Guatemala - If you invite someone you pay
Absolutely, the nuances of bill splitting and paying for meals vary widely across cultures, and in Guatemala, the etiquette surrounding inviting someone out to dinner carries its own set of expectations and considerations.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/094783e200d4091c04848629ff69a87a.jpg)
20. Spain - Feel free to lurk for a table
In Spain, especially in bustling tapas bars or some casual restaurants, the system for snagging a table can indeed diverge from the orderly queues or formal waitlists seen in other cultures. The atmosphere can be lively and spontaneous, reflecting the vibrant energy of the Spanish dining scene.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/spanishsevillainterior1.0.jpg)
21. Italy - Don't drink cappuccino any time after lunch
In the realm of Italian coffee culture, the choice of beverage goes beyond mere preference—it’s an unwritten code that reflects tradition, social norms, and even culinary etiquette. Picture yourself in a charming Italian café, enveloped in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-134.jpg)
22. India - Finish all of your food
In India, the cultural significance of finishing your food extends far beyond the act of mere consumption. It’s a reflection of values deeply ingrained in gratitude, respect, and a mindful approach to minimizing waste.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-135.jpg)
23. Ethiopia - Eat from the same plate
In Ethiopia, the act of dining isn’t just about satiating hunger; it’s a communal experience that embodies the essence of sharing, camaraderie, and cultural togetherness. The traditional Ethiopian dining practice, centered around a large communal platter, reflects the deeply ingrained values of community.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-136.jpg)
24. Japan - Don't pass from chopstick to chopsticks
In Japan, the etiquette surrounding the use of chopsticks goes beyond the practicalities of dining; it’s steeped in cultural symbolism and traditional customs. One particular practice—passing food from chopstick to chopstick—carries deep cultural connotations.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Photo-by-rawpixel.com-from-Pexels-1.jpg)
25. Nigeria - Women cannot use spoons
In certain Nigerian tribes, cultural practices and traditions surrounding dining utensils extend beyond practicality, embodying deeply rooted beliefs and societal norms. Among these traditions is the stipulation that the use of a spoon during meals is exclusively reserved for men.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-137.jpg)
26. Britain - A teaspoon cannot touch the sides of the teacup
Indeed, the quintessential British tea ceremony comes with its own set of unspoken rules and etiquette, reflecting the cultural reverence for this beloved beverage. Among these customs are specific guidelines regarding the handling of teacups and teaspoons, harkening back to traditional manners and refinement.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/b781590172b682f8884fd666cd3d6381.jpg)
27. China - Feel free to burp
Absolutely, in certain cultural contexts like China, the perception of burping can indeed take on a surprising and contrasting significance compared to many other societies where it's generally considered impolite or rude.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/maxresdefault-19.jpg)
28. England - Tilt the soup away
Ah, the genteel tradition of soup etiquette in England—a subtle yet fascinating aspect of dining customs that has woven its way into the fabric of refined dining. In the tapestry of British dining traditions, the art of consuming soup was guided by a set of unspoken rules...![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/9984ee96e3d142cbb52fda63b72b37bb.jpg)
29. Austria - No need to tip
In Austria, the customs around tipping and dining etiquette often align with a sense of personal discretion and mutual respect between customers and establishments. When it comes to leaving a tip, the practice isn’t universally expected or obligatory.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/eedd75eeb17b19fafebc9e73a4c6a1fa-scaled.jpg)
30. Madagascar - Only pick up cutlery after an elder has
In Madagascar, the dining customs are deeply intertwined with cultural values centered around respect, hierarchy, and honoring elders. Observing proper etiquette during meals is considered crucial, and one such custom revolves around the use of cutlery and the precedence given to elders.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/R-138.jpg)
32. Ancient Greece: Only Eat Meat Killed By Ritual Sacrifice
In Ancient Greece, the consumption of meat, specifically animals sacrificed through ritualistic ceremonies, was deeply intertwined with religious practices and cultural beliefs. Sacrificial offerings of animals to the gods played a pivotal role in Greek religious rituals and social customs.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/2-42.jpg)
Image Source / Look and Learn
If you were a resident of Ancient Greece during this time, then you would have needed to consume only animals killed through ritualistic sacrifice. This is because animals were sacrificed to the Gods in this way, before the meat was consumed and the bones and fat set aside for the Gods.33. Middle East: Only Eat With Your Right Hand
Absolutely, in many Middle Eastern cultures, including parts of the Arab world, there's a strong cultural association between the left hand and activities considered unclean or inappropriate, such as personal hygiene and bathroom-related tasks.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/3-41.jpg)
Image Source / KQED
In the Middle East, the left hand is associated with bodily functions, so it's seen in poor taste to eat with that one... You have to eat and socialise with your right hand only. If you're left-handed, you best learn how to eat with your right hand quick!34. India: Don't Even Touch Your Plate With Your Left Hand
Absolutely, the cultural association of the left hand with impurity or uncleanliness is observed not only in the Middle East but also in various regions across India and parts of Africa. In these cultures, the left hand is often considered unsuitable for certain actions.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/4-39.jpg)
Image Source / Wego Travel Blog
The same left-hand rule applies in India and parts of Africa, too. But in India it's much more strict in that you shouldn't even touch your plate with your left hand, even if you're still eating with your right. This rule also stretches - outside of cuisine - to not using your left hand to hand out important documents either!35. Britain: Mention The Bishop Of Norwich
Ah, the curious tradition surrounding the passing of port in some social circles, where the flow of this beloved drink around the table is accompanied by a peculiar tale involving the Bishop of Norwich. In certain British traditions, the passing of the decanter of port around the table follows a particular etiquette...![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/5-35-765x1024.jpg)
Image Source / Wikipedia
This relates to the etiquette rule of passing the port to the left. You also need to mention the Bishop of Norwich - for some reason - if - for some reason - the decanter of port stops moving around the table. If it does, you have to say, 'Do you know the Bishop of Norwich?'. If they say no, you have to say, 'He's a very good chap, but he always forgets to pass the port'. Yep.36. Italy: Don't Ask For Parmesan
The use of Parmesan cheese in Italian cuisine is a nuanced matter that varies dish by dish and region by region. In Italy, each pasta dish or pizza has its traditional recipe and flavor profile that may or may not call for the addition of Parmesan cheese.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/6-3-768x1024.jpeg)
Image Source / Fisher and Woods
A lot of pasta dishes, including pizza, aren't intended to be paired with parmesan cheese. So in a lot of cases, asking for parmesan cheese can be seen as ruining the original recipe when it should have a different flavour, or a different cheese. The easiest way to follow is if the dish should have it, they'll offer it. So if they don't, just leave it!37. Korea: Lift Your Glass With Both Hands For An Elder To Fill
In Korean culture, respect for elders and adherence to traditional customs are deeply ingrained values that manifest in various aspects of daily life, including gestures as seemingly simple as handling a glass during a drink refill.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/7-11.webp)
Image Source / Metro
If an older person in Korea offers you a drink or to refill your glass, hold the glass with both hands to lift for them to fill. It's a sign of respect in Korean culture and it's a very important cultural tradition. A lot of Koreans might find they automatically reach for things with both hands!38. Korea: Turn Your Head Away To Sip
The act of turning one's head slightly away after receiving a drink or having a glass refilled by an elder is an additional gesture that reflects respect and humility. Once the elder has finished pouring the drink into the glass that you're holding with both hands, the customary practice is to turn the head slightly to the side before taking a small sip.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/8-10-1024x575.webp)
Image Source / Healthline
Another rule for this particular custom when showing respect for elders is, when they have finished pouring into the glass you're holding with both hands, to turn your head away and take a small sip with your head still turned.39. Italy: Don't Mix Seafood And Cheese
The combination of seafood and cheese in Italian cuisine is often a contentious topic, especially among purists and locals. In many regions in Italy, the pairing of seafood with cheese is traditionally avoided due to the belief that these two flavors clash and may compromise the delicate taste of the seafood.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/9-33.jpg)
Image Source / Food Republic
If you're ordering a seafood dish, it's important not to be tempted to ask for cheese. It's actually seen as rude by locals, due to their belief that those two flavours just should not go together and fight against their individual flavours!40. Egypt And Portugal: Don't Use Salt And Pepper
In various culinary cultures, including some in Europe and Asia, the act of reaching for salt and pepper before tasting the food is often perceived as more than just a seasoning preference—it can carry subtle implications about the chef's skills and the perceived flavoring of the dish.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/10-2-1024x704.jpeg)
Image Source / Wikipedia
For most people, reaching for the salt and pepper pots is just normality to start off a meal. But in both of these countries, it's actually a bit insulting to put salt and pepper on your food before eating it because it implies to the chef that you don't think their food is seasoned enough!41. India: 'Thank You' Is Only For Formal Settings
The expression of gratitude and the use of "thank you" vary across cultures, reflecting different social norms and customs. In Western cultures, saying "thank you" for everyday courtesies and small gestures is a social norm deeply ingrained in daily interactions.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/11-4.png)
Image Source / www.lbbonline.com
In Western culture, it can be seen extremely rude if you don't say thank you in everyday situations - such as someone holding the door for you, saying thank you to the person on the till or thanks to the post man. But in India, a 'thank you' should be reserved for only formal occasions.42. Japan: Slurp Your Noodles
In Japanese dining culture, particularly when it comes to consuming noodles like ramen or udon, slurping is not only acceptable but can even be considered a positive and respectful practice. Far from being considered impolite or disruptive, slurping noodles in Japan is often seen as a sign of appreciation.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/12-32.jpg)
Image Source / Sky News
The idea of someone slurping their food can be a little cringey, but in Japan it isn't actually considered annoying. Slurping is a sign that you're very much enjoying your meal, so it's considered a compliment. Not only that, but apparently slurping can also better bring out the flavours in the noodles!43. Italy: Don't Ask For Ketchup
In some culinary cultures, particularly in certain regions of Italy, the idea of pairing ketchup with French fries might raise a few eyebrows. The Italians, who take great pride in their fries, have their own set of preferred condiments and traditions when it comes to enjoying this beloved dish.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/13-1.jpeg)
Image Source / FAIL Blog - Cheezburger
Sad news if you're ordering a big stack of French fries and usually have ketchup with them. In this country, you should never ask for ketchup, and you'll just have to resist the urge until you get back home and can go to the McDonald's drive thru!44. Egypt: Don't Refill Your Own Glass
In Egyptian dining culture, there's a strong emphasis on communal sharing and mutual consideration during meals or social gatherings. The etiquette surrounding refilling glasses, particularly with water, reflects these values of hospitality and attentiveness to others' needs.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/14-14.webp)
45. France: Don't Offer To Split The Bill
Indeed, the practice of splitting the bill, which is quite common in some cultures, might not be as prevalent in France, particularly in certain dining situations. In France, the custom of "going Dutch" or dividing the bill equally among diners is not as widely practiced.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/15-24.jpg)
Image Source / Wini Moranville
Don't go to France if you don't have a lot of spare cash because you might end up footing the entire bill. This is because, if you eat out in France, it's actually considered as something 'not done' to split the bill with whoever you're eating with. You either need to pay the whole thing, or let someone else pay for the whole thing.46. Italy: Don't Ask For Extra Things For Your Pizza
Ordering pizza in Italy often follows certain customs and expectations that differ from what some might be accustomed to in other parts of the world. When dining on traditional Italian pizza, particularly in more authentic pizzerias or establishments, it's generally preferred to enjoy the pizza as it's presented.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/16-10-1024x768.webp)
Image Source / Conde Nast Traveler
Some people might like a big dollop of garlic mayo for their takeout pizza, or maybe you want a big pile of extra cheese on top. All of this is a no-no if you've ordered pizza in Italy. Never ask for anything extra, including condiments, unless they're actually offered to you.47. Japan: Don't Leave A Tip
Tipping practices can vary significantly between cultures and countries. In Japan, tipping is not considered a standard practice in many situations, and it's often perceived differently than in Western cultures. In fact, offering a tip in Japan can sometimes be seen as confusing or even awkward.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/17-24.jpg)
Image Source / IKIDANE NIPPON
Some places, like America, expect a tip as a common custom. And in other areas of the world, it's a done thing, especially if you've received exceptional service. But in Japan, it isn't the case - and if you do try and tip someone, in some areas of Japan they may even reject it.48. Italy: Don't Ask For Chicken With Pasta
In traditional Italian cuisine, the pairing of certain ingredients in pasta dishes is carefully considered to maintain a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. While chicken is a widely enjoyed protein in many cuisines, its incorporation into pasta dishes might not align...![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/18-28.jpg)
Image Source / Simply Delicious
Most people would agree that chicken in pasta tastes amazing, and it's a great way to bump it up a bit and make it more filling. But apparently in Italy, it's a no-no to ask for chicken with your pasta. This is because the textures are believed to be too similar.49. Japan And China: Use The Blunt End Of Chopsticks If Using Shared Dishes
In East Asian dining etiquette, particularly in Japan and China, when sharing dishes from communal plates, there are specific chopstick manners to observe that reflect cultural norms and hygiene practices. Using the blunt or thicker end of the chopsticks to pick food from shared plates is considered good etiquette.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/19.jpeg)
Image Source / Facebook
It's a custom for plates of food to be shared around the table in Japan and China, but when doing this, it's important to use the blunt end of the chopsticks to pick from, and dip into, shared plates. You shouldn't use the pointed end, as it's the side that goes into your mouth.50. Kazakhstan: A Full Cup Of Tea Can Be A Bad Sign
Indeed, in Kazakhstan, the way tea is served can carry subtle cultural nuances and meanings. When a cup of tea is presented only halfway filled, it's not a reflection of pessimism or any negative connotation but rather a customary practice deeply rooted in hospitality and social etiquette.![](https://femanin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20-27-e1666887714491-1024x1003.jpg)
Image Source / The Sandy Feet
In Kazakhstan, it's more the 'done thing' to serve a cup of tea that's only filled halfway. This isn't anything to do with pessimism or optimism, of course. It's just a good sign and the normal thing. When a cup of tea is completely full, however, this can be a sign that the host would prefer it if you left!