Passing dishes and food
Things you should do:-
Soup spoons, coffee spoons, and dessert spoons should be placed on the service plate or saucer when you are finished eating. Never leave them in the bowl, cup etc.
Always pass to the right.
Initiate the passing of rolls, butter, and condiments even if you do not want any.
Pass jugs, gravy boats etc. with the handle toward the recipient.
Things you should not do:-
Never reach across the table. If anything isn't directly in front of you, ask for it to be passed.
Posture and behaviour
Things you should do:-
When being entertained at someone's home it is nice to take a gift for the host and hostess. A bottle of wine, bunch of flowers or chocolates are all acceptable.
On arrival in a restaurant or at a formal function give your coat to the waiter, never hang it on the back of your chair. If in doubt ask your host(ess).
When you wish to use the toilet, excuse yourself and leave quietly. Do not ask people where they are going if they excuse themselves.
Things you should not do:-
Elbows should not be on the table until after all courses have been cleared away.
Never lean on your elbows! Keep your posture erect.
Never rock back in your chair.
Never smoke during a meal. Smoking should not take place until dessert is finished. Follow the lead of the host or ask if you may smoke. Use ashtrays only.
Never apply makeup or comb your hair at the table.
- See more at: http://www.learnenglish.de/culture/eatingculture.html#sthash.Tji8HBA0.dpuf