Dining Etiquette

If invited to a home in Italy, you should wear fashionable attire that is still somewhat formal, such as a jacket and tie for men and an attractive dress for ladies, if the invitation specifies that the dress code is casual.

Being on time is not required. If you're asked to dinner, you can be up to 15 minutes late, and if you're invited to a party, you can be up to 30 minutes late. Bring something wrapped in a gift if you are asked to a meal, such wine or chocolates.

Send flowers the same day if you're invited to dinner and wish to send flowers. Until you are requested to sit down, keep standing. You might be directed to a certain seat. Continental table manners dictate that the knife should be held in the right hand while eating and the fork in the left.

Follow the hostess' example; she is the first to arrive at the table, to begin eating, and to leave at the conclusion of the meal. The first toast is made by the host. Later on in the meal, an honored guest should reciprocate the toast. A toast may be made by a woman. Always start with a tiny portion so that you can be persuaded to accept a second serving.

During the meal, avoid keeping your hands in your lap but also avoid resting your elbows on the table. Leaving a tiny quantity of food on your plate is acceptable. Instead of using your fingers, pick up the cheese with a knife. Leave your wine glass almost full if you don't want any more.