Some basic rules for the dinner guest are essential whether you’re eating at a restaurant or someone else’s home. These things, which I told a young woman desperate to know in the rest room once, include: • Use all the manners that you use at home or at least the ones you remember: Chew with your mouth closed. Don’t’ talk with your mouth full. Don’t’ burp or slurp in public. Keep elbows off the table. Say excuse me, thank you and please. • Treat the server with respect. True, they are paid to serve you but they are not your personal servant. Look the server in the eye and speak clearly. Mumbling indicates your insecurity and could get you the wrong order. Relax and take pleasure in the experience. Enjoy the food, the drink, the company, the atmosphere … This is not the time to feel funny about eating in front of people. “I’m not that hungry,” is not what your paying host wants to hear. • Dress appropriately but comfortably.