Chinese Dining Customs

There are many things that differentiate Chinese culture from other cultures, especially how it compares to the United States. One very different aspect of the culture are the dining and eating customs within China. These different eating practices and traditions date back many years, including chopsticks which "has been a Chinese practice for 4,000 years" (China.org.cn - Culture, Sep 10, 2004) and are still used today. Customs can range from something as simple as waiting for others to eat to something as complicated as specific seating arrangements that are based on one’s honor in the group of people.

Habits and traditions can change depending if the group of people are going out to eat or eating in their own home or event. Many decisions are based on the host, whether they are serving their guests or bringing them somewhere. One of the first practices is the seating arrangement at the table. Typically, the host will sit by the door of the kitchen so they have easy access to bringing the dishes to the table. If they are out to eat, the host will sit by where the waiter would stand or “the least-favored position,” (Li, Weisen - Chinese Culture and Customs, Date Unknown). They will also seat themselves by the guests of honor to converse with them easier. Seats at the table are also based on senority, with the host typically sitting futher from the youngest people. No matter the position of a person at the table or their relation to the host, it is sometimes expected that each guest of honor makes a toast to the table at least once during the meal. It is most common for everyone to wait to eat until the guest of honor has taken the first bite.

When someone else is paying or serving, eating and drinking loudly with lots of expression isn’t considered disrespectful in China. Instead, it is a way to show gratitude and appreciation towards the person and their generous act.

Chopsticks are a very delicate utensil when it comes to using them. There are very specific actions one should avoid. Some of these actions include pointing with the chopsticks, using them to stab food, and using the chopsticks to dig around in the food. If foreign guests aren’t sure how to use chopsticks, they are forgiven and offered utensils like forks and knives.

Tea is usually served at the end of the meal or banquet. Each guest fills their neighbors’ cups and everyone takes their own turn. To show appreciation for pouring tea, the guest taps three fingers on the table. Weisen Li notes that this gesture dates back to a Qing Dynasty emperor who would pour tea for commoners and travelers. (Li, Weisen - Chinese Culture and Customs, Date Unknown)