Buffet Etiquette
Expert Tips For Meals in a Social or Professional Setting
Whether you're setting one up or helping yourself to the bounty of food, it's important to know the correct way to serve yourself. It's not only about having proper etiquette, but it also involves cleanliness.
Buffet dining has become very popular in restaurants and at private dinner parties. It's a way to take as little or as much food as you want, and you're able to sample a wide variety of dishes. At the Australian Finishing School we recommend when dining out at a buffet style restaurant, always get a fresh plate before putting food on it. Returning with the same plate is unsanitary and may spread germs and bacteria.
Don't touch any of the food in the serving dishes. Never use your fingers to pluck something off a serving dish. Use the tongs, spoon, or serving fork that is provided. Please make sure you also don't want to lick your fingers while standing at the serving counter.
Place all serving utensils in the original dishes. We do not wish to cross contaminate items. If someone is allergic to a food item that winds up in another dish, that person may become very ill.
If you enjoyed these etiquette expert tips, join us for one of our workshops.