Dining Etiquette
If you are invited to a Venezuelan's house:
. Arrive 15 to 30 minutes later than invited.
. Arriving on time or early shows that you are too eager, which is interpreted as greedy.
. Dress conservatively but with an elegant flair. Smart casual dress is usually acceptable.
. Never decline an offer of coffee, as it is a symbol of hospitality to Venezuelans.
Table manners
. Wait for the host or hostess to tell you where to sit. There may be a seating plan.
. Table manners are Continental -- the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
. Do not begin eating until all other diners are seated, unless encouraged by the host to start.
. The host saying 'buen provecho' (enjoy or have a good meal) is the customary invitation for everyone to eat.
. In most cases, a maid or server will place food on your plate, although large dinner parties may be buffet style.
. Always keep your hands visible when eating, but do not rest your elbows on the table.
. Food is always eaten with utensils. Even fruit is eaten with a knife and fork.
. Keep your napkin on your lap while eating.
. Wait for a toast to be made before taking the first sip of your drink. Venezuelans typically toast with the word 'salud'.
. The host makes the first toast.
. When not using utensils, rest the tips on the edge of the plate with the handles resting on the table.
. It is considered polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate when you have finished eating.
. When you have finished eating, place your knife and fork diagonally across the plate with the
. Do not give handkerchiefs since they are considered unlucky.
. Gifts are generally opened when received.