How does a person eat at a fancy restaurant and how would you set the table?

Looking back at some of my posts, I realize my heart was in the right place, but I was getting away (a little) from my intended subjects.  So today's post will be a reboot of sorts.

It wasn't long ago that we were watching something on TV and there was a big fancy dinner table with all kinds of fancy place settings.  The question quickly posed went like this, how can somebody eat with all that fancy stuff on the table, and how would you know where to put all of that fancy stuff?

The above place setting begs the initial questions the boys asked.  I am here to tell you that I have probably eaten no more than five times in my life at a place that is this fancy.  A couple of things to say here, would be that the food was probably pretty good, but not better than something Mom could do.  Also, if you are not on expense account, the price of the meal is probably a little higher than your Dad's pay grade.

All of that being said, I want you to be comfortable if you ever find yourself at this table.  The best rule of thumb regarding the silverware is to work from the outside in toward the plate.  Also, if you are not sure, make light conversation with those around you, while stealing a quick glance to see what others are doing (more often than not they may be doing the same thing).  If you are in a fancy restaurant, generally, the wait staff, will guide you along in the correct manner.

The above diagram shows a legend for how to set up a formal place setting.

This is a fairly simple diagram for correct placement.  If you are put in a situation where you are asked to help set up these settings, tell the host that you are not comfortable with doing so.  If that answer falls on deaf ears, here is a solution that might help you wing your way through the task. Place the items with  even amounts of letters in its name to the left of the plate and place the items with odd amounts of letters in its name to the right side of the plate.  Simple rule that works and is easy to remember.  Another rule, although not steadfast, is to place the smallest items on the outside and gradually increase with the largest items winding up closest to the plate .

Gracious, that is a lot to learn.  I am proud that we have that under our belts.  Tomorrow, we will tackle some more etiquette and eating issues.  

Just a quick note to-Sarah, Joseph, James, and Ms. Emily Margaret: If I haven't told you today, I sure do love you guys.

Have a wonderful day!!

A