The Scoop on Place Settings

Imagine this: A lush garden, an elegant table set-up, fresh tulips in a crystal vase, wonderful people and your partner-- holding your arm as you walk around in a cream-colored skirt-suit, with wrist-length gloves, a gold beaded clutch and a delicate hat. You sit down at the table, it's decorated with soft fabrics and fine linen, lavish china and silver flatware. The waitstaff comes to you and hands you the menu. You peruse through it and opt for the Foie Gras and Caviar Gueridon ... but all of a sudden, you don't feel like ordering because in a table surrounded by wellborn aristocrats, you've suddenly forgotten which utensils to use once your dinner arrives.

Fortunately, this will never happen! And just to reassure you of that, here's the essence of elegant eating:

1. After unfolding the dinner napkin and graciously placing it on your lap, it's good to tell your date what you want so that he can place both orders.

2. When it comes to silverware, remember to "work your way in":

Utensils are placed about one inch from the edge of the table, each one lining up at the base with the one next to it. The ones on the outermost position are used first (see diagram above).

The glasses are positioned about an inch from the knives, usually in the order of use: white wine, red wine, dessert wine, and water tumbler.

3. Take small, bite-size pieces of your perfectly small portion-sized dinner, chewing carefully with your mouth closed. Avoid talking while you're chewing.

4. Once you are done, gently tap your napkin over your lips, wiping away any wine sauce residue. Then place the napkin in front of you. The waiter will know you're done.

Bon Appetit!