Most of us know that there is a lot of emphasis around dining in china and almost a strict ritual surrounding it, so when entertaining guests for business or pleasure the Chinese prefer to eat in public. As a lot of business deals are closed around the dining table you obviously what to make a good impression and not offend your host / business associates. You will only eat at someone’s home if you have developed a good rapport and should regard it as an honour, if this is the case then you should at least tried to learn how to use chopsticks. It is customary to bring a gift of wine, fruit or flowers, make sure you dress well, arrive on time and remove your shoes upon entering the house. Start by greeting the eldest person first, your host may start peeling an apple or pear and offer it to you, take it and eat it. Also you may be offered cigarettes or sweets before your meal, if you don’t want them say “Wo bu yao le, xie xie!” (Thank you I don’t want any.)
Once you get to the dining room it is customary for the guest of honour to be given the seat facing the door, but wait to be seated. If you’re unsure of what to do once seated, and it is a particularly formal occasion wait and observe what the other diners are doing and emulate their behaviour.
Advice and Information for the World Traveller on Many Destinations
