Dining Etiquette in Portugal

For visitors to Portugal for the first time, dining etiquette can be a little intimidating, but you will quickly pick it up. If you are having dinner at someone's home, the host normally chooses where everyone sits. As soon as everyone has been served, you can begin eating. In order to let everyone know that they can begin eating, the host frequently says "bom proveito" or "bom apetite."

When it comes to utensils, things become a little perplexing. The fork is held in the left hand while the knife is in the right. To eat with only a fork is considered impolite. Dessert is served with the smaller fork and spoon above your dish. When finished, place the knife and fork on the plate parallel to one another. This lets your host or waiter know that you're done. You can place your cutlery on either side of the plate if you haven't finished. This will prevent a waiter from taking your plate.

While dipping bread in sauce is enjoyable, it is impolite to do so in more formal circumstances. With your fork, dip a piece of bread you've cut with your hands into a sauce. When eating, napkins are typically placed on your lap, especially if they are made of cotton. When you are finished eating, fold the napkin before setting it on the table. In Portugal, who foots the bill? It varies, but especially for those over 40, the one who makes the invitation is typically the one who foots the price. However, younger individuals frequently just divide the cost.

Dinner and lunch are frequently served until later. Don't expect a speedy supper; unless you tell them you have somewhere to be, this is not common. After a meal, guests frequently linger over coffee and engage in conversation. A meal that starts at 1 pm will likely end at 5 or 6 pm, especially if it is a typical family lunch, or almoco de familia. These lunches with the family are typical in Portugal, especially on Sundays.