Sharing Food: Cultural Norms and Etiquette in Europe’s Restaurants

Sharing food is a universal act of hospitality and camaraderie, but the etiquette surrounding it can vary greatly from one culture to another. In Europe, the norms around sharing food in restaurants can be quite different from those in other parts of the world. Whether you’re planning a trip to Spain, Portugal, or any other European country, understanding these cultural norms can help you navigate the dining scene with ease and respect for local customs.

General European Dining Etiquette

In general, European dining etiquette tends to be more formal than in other parts of the world. It’s common for each person to order their own dish, and sharing is not as widely practiced as in, say, Asian or Middle Eastern cultures. However, this doesn’t mean that sharing is frowned upon. It’s perfectly acceptable to share dishes, especially when dining in a group. The key is to ask for separate plates or serving utensils to avoid reaching into the same dish.

Sharing Food in Spain

In Spain, sharing food is not just acceptable, it’s a way of life. The Spanish tradition of tapas is all about sharing small plates of food. When dining out, it’s common for a group to order several tapas and share them all. Even when ordering larger dishes, like paella, it’s often served family-style for everyone to share. However, if you’re dining as a couple or in a smaller group, it’s still common to order individual dishes.

Sharing Food in Portugal

Portugal has a similar food culture to Spain, with a strong emphasis on communal dining. Petiscos, the Portuguese version of tapas, are small dishes meant to be shared. Larger dishes, like the traditional seafood stew caldeirada, are also typically shared among the table. However, as in Spain, it’s also common to order individual dishes, especially at lunch.

Sharing a Single 3 Course Dinner

When it comes to sharing a single 3 course dinner, the etiquette can vary. In some upscale or fine dining restaurants, it may be frowned upon. This is because the chef has designed the meal to be a certain experience, with each course building on the last. However, in more casual restaurants, it’s usually not a problem. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to ask the server.

Conclusion

While the norms around sharing food in European restaurants can vary, the key is to be respectful and mindful of the local culture. When in doubt, observe what others are doing or simply ask. Most importantly, enjoy the experience of trying new foods and sharing them with others.