Published By: Rinks

11 Unusual Dining Customs From All Around The World

Here are some of the most bizarre dining customs that will surprise you.

The finest part of every trip is the food. What say you? You can't possibly prepare yourself for the bizarre culinary traditions practiced in other countries. However, learning about these norms can help avoid offending locals and other visitors. If you want to live like a native when visiting a foreign country, check out our guide.

China

In China, not leaving food on one's plate is considered impolite. This is an excellent approach to let the host know you've had enough to eat.

Japan

Using a chopstick to pass food at a Japanese dinner table is considered impolite. The same way bones are handed during a funeral, so the thinking goes. Therefore, no one likes being disturbed during a meal by thoughts of death and memorial services.

Thailand

The practice of using a fork to place food in one's mouth is frowned upon in Thai culture. Forks are prohibited from being used for anything other than pushing food onto a spoon. Consider using a knife before visiting Thailand if you plan on dining there. I'm intrigued as to how they consume the noodles.

South Korea

In South Korea, the meal officially begins once the eldest person at the table has done so. You should also eat at the same rate as the most aged individual in the group. This action is seen as respectful. Wait for the most senior to initiate.

India

Using your left hand to eat in India is considered extremely rude. In this culture, people generally feel that the left hand should be used for personal hygiene while the right should be saved for more virtuous endeavors. Do you find that odd?

Egypt

In Egypt, it is rude to request a salt shaker. It's a signal to the kitchen that additional seasoning is needed since the dish just needs to be flavorful enough. If you don't want to offend your host, it's best to be quiet throughout the meal.

Chile

You should always utilize your utensils when dining in Chile. This is a sanitary plan overall. But with only a knife and fork at your disposal, how can you satisfy your hunger for chicken drumsticks?

Italy

A serious faux pas throughout Italy is to request cheese with your fish. It is a cardinal offense to combine fish and cheese. However, you may only receive unpleasant looks at a popular tourist location. Don't take the cooks' disdain personally.

United Kingdom

Keep the spoon away from the bottom of the cup when stirring. If you're done mixing, put the spoon back on the saucer. Even if no one is outraged by the tinkling sound of your spoon striking the cup, you will undoubtedly be pegged as a tourist. And now for the condescending looks.

Russia

A major faux pas in Russian culture is resting one's hand upon that lap at the dinner table. They should not be placed on the lap but on a table or other flat surfaces. Be mindful of what you consume in Russia.