HOW TO EAT IN ITALIA
Dealing with Italian waiters is similar to crossing Italian streets: you can do it if you are brazen enough, showing skill and courage and looking all the time as though you own the place. A good waiter should explain the dishes on the menu and help you select the wine. But if you order coffee or tea during the meal, ask for the ketchup, bottle, or request a doggie bag... watch out, you will be in big trouble.
A guiding principle in Italian dining is that you eat one food at a time and that every food has its place. If you order a light supper of pasta and salad at an informal trattoria, you will be served the pasta first and the salad after. If you want to start your meal with a salad, the key word is come, as in come antipasto, vorrei un insalata mista (as an antipasto, I would like a mixed salad), or comme secondo, vorrei un contorno (as a second course, I would like a vegetable).
HOW TO EAT IN INDONESIAN
Indonesian cuisine was influenced by traders from India, the Middle East, China, and, later, Spain and Portugal. The Dutch, who colonized many of the 6,000 islands that make up Indonesia, adapted the buffet eating style of the native peoples, into the famous rijstaffel (or rice table). Sambals and tempeh, an adaptation of tofu, also originated in Indonesia.
- Social events generally start late. Indonesians usually arrive thirty minutes after the stated time.
- Any business discussions at social events should be initiated by Indonesians.
- A fork and spoon are used for dining. The fork is held in the left hand and the spoon in the right. Use the fork to push food onto the spoon.
- Most Indonesians are Muslim and consume no liquor or pork.
- Indonesians are known for their hospitality. Do not reject their hospitality, as it will be viewed as a personal rejection. Never refuse food or drink, but never finish either completely. Compliments about the food are appreciated. It is a special honor to be invited to an Indonesian's home.
- The host is always the last to sit and eat. Men are generally served first. Wait to be invited to eat or drink.
- The guest of honor or senior person begins the meal; this is a distinct honor. If you are asked to begin the meal, you should refuse twice and then begin.
- Fingers are still used for eating in some places. Both hands are kept above the table while eating.
- The person who invites is expected to pay the bill in a restaurant. Request the bill by making a scribbling gesture on the palm of your hand.
- When finished with the meal, place the fork (tines down) on your plate with your spoon (down) crossed over the fork.
If possible, reciprocate with a dinner before you leave the country. A lavish dinner may be criticized; be generous and hospitable, but don't overdo it.
