Tuesday 22 / April / 2025
Whether at a private party or corporate event, buffets seem to be the preferred way of serving food these days. This is probably because they are time efficient, and require minimum staff attendance. A buffet, as you may know, is a form of dining service in which food is spread out on tables in a public area and guests generally serve themselves.
The casualness and informality of the service however, does not provide an excuse for inappropriate behaviours. With the Christmas and New Year holiday season on, here are some tips for the buffet guest:
Standing in line
A buffet line is meant to move in one direction only. Buffets are the popular choice at events because they allow for socialising and interaction. You can use the time to briefly greet and chat with the others while waiting. When standing in line, give others enough personal space and elbow room. If you feel the urge to cough or sneeze in line, it’s appropriate to step out of the line to do so. If someone takes too long to serve themselves, simply ask permission to cross over and move along. Reaching around, or cutting the line is rude and can also cause an accident. Nibbling on food, while standing in line is wrong and unhygienic.
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Serving food
Don’t hover around the dishes for long. If unsure, move on and return later. Hold the plate as close to the dish as possible while serving to avoid spillage. For the same reason, avoid over loading the plate. Serve modest portions, as second helpings are permissible. Exercise choice, and arrange the food on your plate in such a way that it presents an appetising picture. Always use a serving spoon at a buffet, and place the spoon on the platter in front of the dish after serving. Do not leave the spoon in the dish. Avoid serving the last of the food. Wait for the dish to be refilled before serving yourself. If you wish to take a second helping, it is considered polite and hygienic to use a fresh plate for every food trip. However, if it is a private party being hosted, and you know the host is paying by the head, or if you are in a private home, you should retain your plate.
Eating food
Avoid leaving food uneaten in your plate. The unwritten rule is “you took it, so you eat it”. Of course, sometimes food doesn’t taste as you expected, and you must leave it aside. It is for this reason that serving small portions the first time is recommended. If you are eating while standing, ensure you are not blocking access to the buffet table and serving line.
Practicing appropriate buffet etiquette can help us, and others, enjoy a myriad of cuisines without embarrassment, and make this trendy style of eating a pleasant affair.
Carolann Philips is an award winning, certified management coach and organisational development coach based in Oman. She is also a talent developer, etiquette and protocol consultant. She specialises in behavioural skill development and professional performance enhancement.
