Mexican Dining Etiquette 101
To fully experience Mexican dining, you must not only consume Mexican food, but you must also experience Mexican culture. An important part of Mexican culture is dining etiquette. There are many rules of Mexican etiquette that apply to specific foods, beverages, and other aspects of Mexican dining.
Waiting For Buen Provecho
Do not begin eating until the host says "Buen provecho." Then, each of the guests should express the same sentiment. This expression should also be used if you need to leave the meal early. The phrase means, "have a good meal."
Using Eating Utensils
The knife is placed in the left hand and the fork is placed in the right hand. After the meal has been finished, the knife and fork are placed parallel to each other on the right side of the plate. When you are not using your hands, they are supposed to be visible on the table. You should not place your hands on your lap.
Drinking Tequila
When drinking tequila, you will conventionally be served a small plate of salt and a fresh lime. Using the salt is complicated. You will need to take a pinch of salt in your right hand and put it in the hollow that is formed in your left hand. Raise your left hand to your lips and wipe the salt away with the swipe of the tongue. The entire shot of tequila should be consumed at once. Bite into the lime wedge immediately afterward and suck out the juice. The lime sweetens the flavor of the tequila.
Paying For Meals
When eating out, splitting the bill is not common in Mexico. Instead, one of the parties typically treats the other party to a meal. The one who does the inviting is the one who pays for the meal. Tipping is customary in Mexico with a proper tip being between 10 and 15 percent.
Timing For Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner
Meals in Mexico are on what is considered a delayed schedule. Breakfast is consumed between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Lunch is consumed between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Dinner is consumed between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
Impressing Your Mexican Hosts
If you are visiting Mexico, you may be concerned about whether or not you will make a mistake and offend someone. The good news is that Mexicans are understanding when foreigners do not follow etiquette perfectly and appreciate it when an attempt is made.
If you would like to practice, consider going to restaurants like Lares Restaurant.
