Tomar un sorbo de capuchino por la tarde: un experto te ayuda a comprender los hábitos alimenticios del mundo

Anyone who believes there is a universal code of etiquette applicable to all cultures will soon discover they are mistaken. Eating habits are one of the least predictable aspects of human behavior, and precisely for that reason, they can be the cause of most misunderstandings when someone sits down to a meal with a stranger.

The rules vary from one culture to another.

“Eating norms vary greatly between cultures” notes Ágnes Veszelszki. Perhaps the most obvious example is burping: at the European table, it’s an unforgivable indecency. In some Asian cultures, it’s a sign of satisfaction, and even an accepted way of expressing appreciation to the host and the cook. The same is true of slurping: in Japan, it’s completely natural, and even expected, to slurp soup loudly, especially noodle soups. In Europe, the same thing immediately provokes disapproving looks. A single action, but two different worlds.

A country's culinary pride can also lead to strange, even unusual, rules for other nations. For example, Italians not only take pride in their culinary traditions but often expect tourists to follow them: cappuccino is a breakfast drink; it's not appropriate to order it after a meal, as the milk hinders digestion. Long pasta shouldn't be broken before cooking or cut afterward; cheese, not even Parmesan, is not added to fish dishes; pineapple or chicken shouldn't be ordered with pizza, nor ketchup with pasta. All of this perfectly illustrates the general principle that Ágnes Veszelszki states directly: "When we are abroad, we should respect the country's food customs and adapt to them."

Hospitality as an honor

At its best, welcoming a guest is not a social obligation, but a true honor. In Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, for example, hospitality operates on a completely different logic than what we are accustomed to in Europe. "Hospitality in these regions is not an obligation, but an honor. That's why they treat guests with special attention," explains Ágnes Veszelszki. This special attention also expects reciprocity from the guest. A good example of this is an invitation to an Arab coffee, which is not appropriate to refuse: the gesture is based on friendship, and a refusal can easily be interpreted as an offense.

When we sit in foreign territory

What should we do if we find ourselves at the table of an unfamiliar culture and have no idea about local customs? The answer is surprisingly simple: listen. "It's worthwhile to imitate others, even the host," advises the expert. If everyone around us is eating in silence, we shouldn't be the ones to force conversation by speaking loudly. We can also learn from others how to eat unfamiliar dishes and use cutlery; this is one of the surest ways to avoid awkward situations.

The sensitive topic of alcohol

In a foreign culture, few topics are as sensitive as the consumption of alcoholic beverages, and in this sense, a lack of information can cause serious problems.

In Muslim countries, where alcohol is prohibited, don't even think about ordering an alcoholic drink in a public place. "Don't react violently if you're warned about the prohibition," emphasizes Ágnes Veszelszki. Conversely, in traditional wine-producing countries, wine is a closely guarded treasure: don't order it in a nice place, and don't add ice. The exception is the rosé spritz, very fashionable in France, where ice is essential.

As a guest, it's wise to follow a simple rule: only order alcoholic drinks if the host has done so. And no matter how good the company is, always be careful not to drink too much.

Read our other specialized article on the topic:

One table, many traditions

In today's world, more and more religions, cultures, and diets coexist harmoniously. This situation is not an obstacle, but an opportunity, provided both sides approach it with a similar attitude.

The formula works both ways. "Guests must adapt to the host, but a good host also does everything possible to make their guests feel as comfortable as possible," says the researcher. An attentive host anticipates potential food intolerances, pays attention to the table arrangements, and considers the different habits of the guests. Ultimately, the recipe applies to all situations: "With attention, openness to others, and consideration, many difficult situations can be resolved."

What happens if we make a mistake?

No matter how much we prepare, sometimes we unintentionally break a rule. In those cases, the worst thing we can do is dwell on the awkward moment. "If it's an accidental mistake, don't make a big deal out of it," says Ágnes Veszelszki. If the mistake can be fixed, correct it and move on as soon as possible. A natural and calm attitude is often worth more than any apology.

Charming curiosities around the table

Among culinary traditions, some bring a smile to our faces at first glance, but hold a beautiful reflection. According to superstition, thirteen diners cannot sit at the table. In England, they found an ingenious solution: on this occasion, a teddy bear is placed as the fourteenth guest. But there is also a discreet, yet appropriate, custom: there should be no clock in the dining room. The idea behind it is simple, logical, and infinitely kind: the passage of time should not remind us that a meal in good company will inevitably end.

Norms vary from culture to culture, expectations differ, and what's natural at home can cause friction elsewhere. However, the essence of good manners, whether at an omakase table in Tokyo or a catered event in Cairo, is always the same: pay attention to the other person, adapt to the situation, and ensure everyone at the table enjoys themselves.