Chinese table manners, whether it is used to entertain only a few guests at a single table in one’s home or to holding a public banquet involving dozens of guests sitting at several tables, changes with the character and purpose of the dinner. It also differs a little from region to region in China. However, there are some common rules you can follow at the table in China.

One of the biggest differences between Chinese and Occidental dining manners is that in China a few dishes are offered in the center of a table and shared by all. This means that you should feel free to help yourself not just at the beginning of the meal but during it as well. Also, regard it as a sign of honor and express thanks when a Chinese host picks up food from the center of the table and places it on your plate. In formal dinners, there are always communal chopsticks and spoons for this purpose, but some hosts may use their own chopsticks. This just shows genuine friendship and politeness. It is always polite to eat the food. If you do not eat it, just let the food remain in the plate.

In restaurants banquets are usually held in private rooms that have been reserved for the purpose. All members of your delegation should get there together and on time. You will be greeted at the door and guided to the banquet room, where the hosts are likely to have gathered. Traditionally, as in all occasions, the head of your delegation should enter the room first. Do not be surprised if your hosts welcome you with a loud round of applause. You should applaud back as a response.

Table manners in China also include respect for the elders, just like much of other Chinese etiquette. At the table, serve food for your elders before taking it for yourself. Also, if someone proposes a toast, make sure that when you clink glasses with someone older than you the rim of your glass is lower than that of the elder person, because this is an important sign of respect. Chinese people emphasize filial piety all the time.

People in China tend to order more food than what is needed, for they will find it embarrassing if all the food is eaten up. When you have been full, just say so. Or you will always eat more than is healthy!

Chinese table manners are mostly related with the use of chopsticks. It is the single most important cutlery at a Chinese table. Many rules of etiquette guide the proper use of chopsticks. As such, it needs to be used in a right way.

It is the host’s duty to serve the guests, and at very formal banquets people do not begin to eat until the chief host served a portion to the guest of honor. Alternatively, the host may simply pick up his chopsticks and announce that dinner has begun. After that, one may take any food in any amount for him/herself, although it is impolite to search your favorable portions in a dish. Remember to eat slowly. Don’t make yourself filled up when five courses are left to go. It is impolite to stop eating in the middle of a banquet, and your host may wrongly think that something has been done to upset you.

Drinking takes an important position in Chinese banquets. Toasting is mandatory, and the drinking of spirits starts only after the host has proposed a toast at the beginning of the dinner. It is likely that he/she will stand and hold his/her glass out with both hands while making an opening remark. When he/she says the words ganbei, which means bottoms up (literally empty glass), everyone present should empty their glasses. After the introductory toast, drinking and toasting are open to all. Following toasts can be made from person to person or to the group as a whole. No words are needed to propose a toast, and it is not necessary to empty your glass, although to do so shows more respect. Remember that strong drink should never be drunk alone. If you are thirsty, you can drink beer or beverages in sips individually, but if you prefer to drink hard liquor, be sure to be accompanied by someone at your table, smile and raise your glass, and drink together. Beer or beverages can also be used for toasting. Also, it is discourteous to fill your own glass without first filling glasses of all others. This applies to all drinks and not just to spirits. If your glass becomes empty and your host notices it, it is likely that he/she will pour drinks for you immediately. When filling another’s glass, it is polite to fill it as full as you can without having the liquid overflow the rim. This represents full respect and friendship.

It is a matter of politeness for the host to try to get his guests drunk. If you do not plan to drink alcohol, make it known at the very beginning of the dinner to avoid embarrassment. Even then, the host may kindly try to persuade you into drinking. One way to get rid of this pressure is to tell your host that you are allergic to alcohol. In the course of drinking at banquets, it is quite usual for some Chinese to become quite drunk, although vomiting or falling down in public brings about loss of face. After a few rounds of heavy drinking, you may notice your hosts excusing themselves to the washroom, from where they often return a bit lighter and refreshed for more toasting!

The banquet has officially ended when the last dish is finished. There is little ceremony that is involved with its conclusion. The host may ask if you have been full, which you undoubtedly will have done. Then the principal host will stand up, suggesting that the banquet has ended. Usually, the principal host will say good evening to everyone at the door and stay behind to settle the bill with the restaurateur. Other hosts usually accompany guests to their cars and stay outside waving until the cars have left the premises.

After you have been entertained by your Chinese associates, it is proper to return the favor unless time or other restraints make it impossible.