To Vietnamese people. family meal is not only a routine in everyday life but it is also the symbol of happiness, love, and affection between generation in the family. After a long tiring day, family meal is often the time to members to catch up, share about their days, and bond with each other over a warm, hearty meal.
Since family meal carries very important and special meaning in Vietnamese culture, it is important for one to know about family table manners in order to display respect for elders and to show that one is well-educated.
Vietnamese Family Meal in the past
Modern Vietnamese Family Meal
Before Each Meal
Although all dishes are shared, each person has his/her own bowl. Therefore, it is important for younger members (children) to set the table for their older siblings, parents, and grandparents. Each member has his/her own bowl, cup, and a pair of chopsticks.
In Vietnam, children in kindergarten are taught how to set the table
Before each meal, younger members would invite older family members to have meal and wish that they enjoy it: "mời ông bà, bố mẹ, anh chị dùng bữa ngon miệng" in order to show respect and gratitude for the delicious food.
It is also important to wait for all members to sit down and let the eldest member start eating first before enjoying one's meal. Usually, parents will start the meal, followed by their children.
Other Important Manners
Avoid dipping one's individual chopsticks in the shared bowls. Usually, there is a ladle to get the soup as well as clean spoons and chopsticks to get side dishes.
Avoid chewing with one's mouth opened and chewing too loud.
Avoid eating straight from the shared bowls and dishes. One must put the food into his/her own bowl first.
It is important to be considerate of each other while eating by not eating too fast or too slow but to match everyone's pace.
Avoid leaving food unfinished in one's individual bowl.
Avoid talking about serious matters that would affects others' appetite. For example: never argue in a meal.
Vietnamese Family Meal
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