Dining and Food Etiquette in Sweden
Sweden is an egalitarian and multi-cultural society. Some Swedes say they are not at all concerned with Swedish customs and culture, but they fail to realise how unique their country is and how different it seems to visiting foreigners. Swedish food is usually very delicious but is also expensive. Some more traditional Swedish foods like Surströmming might seem revolting to foreigners but most of their food is made from the finest ingredients and they love fresh seafood. Here is a guide to Swedish food and Food Etiquette in Sweden.
Eating
Do not begin eating until everyone has taken their place at the table and your host has invited you to eat.
Utensils
Like most other continental Europeans, Swedes do not switch knives or forks. The knife is held in the right hand, the fork in the left. On finishing your meal you should lay the knife and fork parallel across the right side of the plate and the tips should point to the 10 o'clock position.
Usually the fork and spoon above your place setting is for dessert. As to the other cutlery surrounding your dinner plate, the general rule is to start from the outside and work your way in with each course. A small side plate often accompanied by a knife across it is generally used for your bread serving.
Food
Do not cut the lettuce in a salad. This should be folded with your knife and fork and eaten in a small parcel shape . Finish everything on your plate, to leave food uneaten is though of as wasteful and can be considered rude.
Seating
Persons seated at the head of the table or in the centre have the most honoured positions. Important guests will be seated around the most honoured guests. Usually, the hosting couple will sit themselves at either end of the table.