Dining Etiquette
If in the rare case you invited to a Hungarian's house:
. Arrive on time if invited for dinner, although a 5-minute grace period is granted.
. If invited to a party or other large gathering, arrive no more than 30 minutes later than invited.
. You may be asked to remove your outdoor shoes before entering the house.
. Do not ask for a tour of the house.
Table manners are formal in Hungary.
. Table manners are Continental -- the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
. The hostess will wish the guests a hearty appetite at the start of each course.
. Do not begin eating until the hostess starts.
. Do not rest your elbows on the table, although your hands should be visible at all times.
. Hospitality is measured by the amount and variety of food served. Try everything.
. If you have not finished eating, cross your knife and fork across your plate.
. Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel across the right side of your plate.
. The guest of honour usually proposes the first toast which generally salutes the health of the individuals present.
. At the end of the meal, someone toasts the hosts in appreciation of their hospitality.
. An empty glass is immediately refilled so if you do not want more to drink, leave your glass ½ full.
. Never clink glasses if drinking beer.