Around the world, there are certain unspoken rules that need to be followed when seated around the dinner table. Every country has its own subtle nuances and Thailand is no exception. So, what are the most important dos and don’ts of Thai food etiquette? Here are the most essential things to remember to help stay in everyone’s social good graces.
Do:
- Do share food with your fellow diners. When you’re eating family-style, it’s polite to share the range of dishes on offer with everybody else at the table, and certainly not correct to take a whole plate of food all to yourself.
- Do take off your shoes when you’re invited into someone’s home for dinner. There are also certain restaurants where taking off your shoes is a requirement before entering.
- Do remember to top up your neighbour’s glass during a meal. In Thailand, nobody pours their own drinks, but instead relies on the person sitting nearest them to do so. Generally, you should fill up your neighbour’s glass when it’s around half empty.
- Do take your time while eating. Sharing a meal together is about savouring the food and talking between mouthfuls, allowing time to properly enjoy each other’s company.
Don’t:
- Don’t ask for chopsticks when eating a rice-based meal. A fork and spoon are the traditional implements to use with these kinds of dishes. A fork, held in your left hand, is used to push food onto the spoon in your right hand, which you then use to bring food to your mouth.
- Don’t begin eating or drinking before the eldest person has started themselves or invited you to do so.
- Don’t eat everything on your plate. It implies your appetite hasn’t been entirely satisfied, which may offend your host. Leave a mouthful or two over to show that you’ve eaten well and feel content.
- Don’t pile your plate high with food. Despite the temptation, it’s polite to only take a small serving of food at a time. Only once you’ve finished what’s on your plate should you go back in for another portion.