Want to Dine Elegantly? Table Manners Are the Way

by Gusti Rayi | Oct 22, 2025 | blog

Hey, we meet again! Last time, we talked about the charm of batik in Wastra Katresnan. Now, let’s find out how to dine with elegance. They say table manners are the way… is that true?

Source : gauchoranchcatering

What is Table Manner?

Ever caught yourself eating with one foot on the chair, making a mess, chewing loudly, or cutting your food so hard that your utensils clash loudly with the plate?
Oh no… big no no!

Source : today.com

Not only is it unpleasant to see, but doing those things can make it seem like you do not respect the food being served or the people around you. Some might even think you have no table manners at all.

Table manners are a set of rules about using the right utensils, having proper posture, and interacting politely with others during meals. Many people think table manners only matter at formal events, but actually, being polite at the table is important even when you are just having a casual meal with friends or family.

Source : dazzlethemag

The History of Table Manners

Table manners have existed since ancient times, specifically since Roman times, when people learned to use spoons, forks, and knives more orderly. Then, in the 15th century, dining etiquette became the standard practice in the lives of the educated, noble, and wealthy.

Even King Louis XIV of France established strict table manners, from plates to the use of cutlery to the proper way to cut food. Since then, table manners have evolved widely, eventually becoming part of all levels of society, even today.

Source : pinterest

Various Rules in Table Manners

Hmm… choosing the right cutlery has been mentioned frequently. Is it really that important? The answer is yes! Because each piece of cutlery has its own function and place. Besides cutlery, there are various rules and fairly detailed explanations regarding table manners, including:

-Clothing
You should wear clothes that match the event.

-Sitting
Sit up straight and don’t put your elbows on the table.-Order of Cutlery
When eating, start with the utensils farthest from the plate, then use the ones closer to the plate.

Source : gentlemansgazette

-Order of Cutlery
When eating, start with the utensils farthest from the plate, then use the ones closer to the plate.

-Eating Soup
Use an oval-shaped spoon for soup. Don’t blow on hot soup — just wait for it to cool down on its own.

-Eating the Main Course
When the main course is served, hold the knife in your right hand and the fork in your left.

-Using a Napkin
Remember, the napkin is only for wiping your mouth. If you need to leave the table for a moment, place the napkin on your chair.

-Talking with Others
Choose neutral topics and avoid sensitive ones like religion, politics, or personal matters especially at formal events.

Source : gentlemansgazette

-While Eating
Chew your food slowly so you don’t make noise that might bother others. If you need to talk, swallow your food first to stay polite.

-Reaching for Food
If the food you want is far away, politely ask someone to pass it to you. Reaching across others is considered rude.

-After Eating
When you’re done eating, place your fork and knife side by side on your plate.

Source : gentlemansgazette

Which of these rules have you followed before? Or maybe… you already practice all of them every time you eat? That’s awesome!

Table Manner Class at Novotel Suites Yogyakarta Malioboro

So, who’s curious about table manners?
Or maybe you just got invited to a formal event and feel unsure about what to do during the meal?

No worries, Novotel Suites has the perfect solution for you.

Source : 10/10 Pool Bar

You can join a table manners class at Novotel Suites Yogyakarta Malioboro, where you will learn how to eat elegantly, receive a certificate, and even be invited on a hotel tour.

Source : 10/10 Pool Bar

Novotel Suites Yogyakarta Malioboro usually holds this etiquette class during lunch, participants who come are fully dressed in a formal dress code to create an elegant and professional atmosphere.

Source : 10/10 Pool Bar
So, invite your friends to join the table manners class at Novotel Suites Yogyakarta Malioboro. If you have any further questions, please contact the number listed.

For your information, besides the delicious food, the class is also really fun!

Source : 10/10 Pool Bar

So, what do you think? Have you already decided what to wear to the table manners class? Or do you want to check out the hotel first? That’s fine.

Source : novotelsuitesmalioboro

Simply visit Novotel Suites Yogyakarta Malioboro to stay overnight or simply relax at the 10/10 Pool Bar, which offers panoramic views of Yogyakarta. So, come on over to 10/10 Pool Bar Jogja and follow us on Instagram @1010poolbar and @novotelsuitesmalioboro for more exciting experiences.