10 Surprising Food Faux Pas Americans Often Make Abroad

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10 Surprising Food Faux Pas Americans Often Make Abroad

Traveling is a blast, but sometimes we can get a bit tripped up when it comes to dining etiquette in different countries. Like, what’s okay back home might not fly when you’re enjoying a meal abroad. Here’s a quick guide to help you avoid those common food faux pas that us Americans often make without even realizing it.

1. Cutting food with the wrong hand

In America, we often cut our food with our right hand and then switch the fork back to eat. But in many European countries, this is a bit of a no-go. Over there, you’re supposed to keep your fork in your left hand and your knife in the right the whole time you’re eating. It might feel a little awkward at first, but you’ll look way more polished once you get the hang of it.

2. Eating before everyone has been served

Jumping right into your food as soon as it hits the table is totally normal in the U.S. But in many parts of the world, it’s polite to wait until everyone has their meal before you start eating. This shows respect for your fellow diners and is considered good manners. So, next time, just give it a minute before digging in.

3. Tipping too much in certain countries

We’re used to dropping a nice 15-20% tip at restaurants, but in many countries, tipping isn’t really a thing—or it’s much less than what we’re used to. In Japan and South Korea, for example, tipping can actually be seen as rude. It’s a good idea to check out what the local tipping customs are before you leave a tip.

4. Not finishing everything on the plate

In the U.S., it’s totally fine to leave a bit of food on your plate when you’re full. But in countries like Japan and China, not finishing your meal can be seen as wasteful and disrespectful to the chef. Try to take smaller portions if you’re not super hungry to avoid any issues.

5. Asking for condiments in fine-dining restaurants

While it’s normal to ask for ketchup or hot sauce at many places in America, doing this in a fine-dining restaurant abroad might get you some raised eyebrows. Many chefs feel that their meal is perfectly seasoned, and asking for extra condiments can imply that you don’t appreciate their cooking as it was intended to be enjoyed.

6. Double-dipping in communal sauces

Double-dipping is generally a no-no everywhere, but it’s especially frowned upon abroad. If you’re sharing a sauce or a dip with others, never dip the same bitten piece of food twice. It’s considered unhygienic and rude. Always use a clean spoon to scoop more sauce onto your plate if needed.

7. Touching food with your hands in chopstick cultures

In places like Japan and Korea where chopsticks are the norm, using your hands to grab food can seem out of place and impolite. It’s best to stick with the chopsticks, or at least ask for a fork if you’re really struggling. This shows that you respect the local dining customs.

8. Using the wrong bread plate at formal dinners

At a formal dinner, you might find a few different plates around your setting. Remember, your bread plate is the one to the left of your main dish. Using someone else’s bread plate can mix things up and make the meal a bit awkward for everyone.

9. Pouring your own drink in Japan

If you find yourself at a drinking session in Japan, hold off on refilling your own glass. It’s customary to pour drinks for others and wait for someone to offer to refill your glass. This practice is all about building rapport and showing respect for each other.

10. Eating while walking in Italy

Grabbing a slice of pizza and eating it as you stroll through the streets might be fine in New York City, but in Italy, it’s seen as hurried and rude. Italians take pride in their meals and prefer that you sit down and savor your food, rather than eat on the go. So, take a moment, find a nice spot, and enjoy your meal the Italian way.