Today I'll finish the series of hitting up some international dining etiquette. Today's focus is on Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Africa:
Egypt-No pork, No eating with the left hand, No alcohol. It is better to return for more than to have a large first plate. Men and women may be asked to eat separately, maybe even in different rooms. Food will be served in this order: Head, oldest man down, children, women.
Sudan-Food is generally only eaten with the hands, only use the right hand
Morocco-Dining usually done on a rug or carpet. If eating from a communal bowl, eat from the portion closest to you. Never put your hand into your mouth as you are eating from the communal bowl.
Tunsia-A communal water glass may be used. Take a drink and then pass it around, be careful of water quality.
Middle East:
Iran-Dress conservatively, and if your host is not wearing shoes (if at the home) then remove yours. Meals are usually served family style, and there tends to be an abundance of food (it is good culture to shower your guests in abundance).
Israel-Men and women may dine in separate rooms in more orthodox homes. Never invite your guests to socialize on the Sabbath unless he is rather not highly religious. Always assume your host follows the eating of the Kosher foods.
Saudi Arabia-You may be given all 3 utensils, or none at all. Alcohol and pork will tend to not be on the menu. If invited to a meal, you may be offered to seat first, allow the host and honored guest to seat first and then see if they offer any more guidance.
Australia (not really Asia, but grouped in this category)-When not using utensils, your hands should be on your lap. You may be required to share a table at informal restaurants, be aware.
China-The business meal will be more so of a banquet, also, women may only participate if they are seen as equal business equals. Compliments are expected, praise the food. Each dish will tend to have its own set of serving chop sticks. Never refill your own glass, refill your neighbors. Do not tip in China, it is illegal.
Japan-Tea has it's own set of rules, follow them closely. Greet other guests with a slight bow. Tipping is generally not done.
South Korea-While rice is offered at most meals, it is not necessary to eat every grain. The most honored position of seating is at the middle of the table. You may be required to share a table at a restaurant, do not force conversation, act as if they are two private seatings. Tipping is not common, a 5% tip will be appreciated.
India-You will be expected to wash your hands at the start and end of a meal. If you feel the need to use utensils and they are not presented, it is fine to ask. Tipping is required, and then more (at least 10%).
Turkey-If you are the honored guest, you will be expected to give a toast. Smoking is common in Turkey, it tends to happen between meals/courses.
The world is a grand place, it helps to know a little bit about where you are going. The last two days I have dived into different worlds to show you just a little of the various guidelines that exist. Tomorrow I will wrap up by looking at a few special rules for eating certain items.
Bon appétit!
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