Irma Istiyani (031104107) VII-B

EATING THAI STYLE
Most first-time visitors to Thailand are surprised that the Thais do not eat with chop sticks (except in the noodle shops), but rather eat with a large spoon and a fork. They adopted the fork and the large spoon, but not the knife because, like Chinese fare, Thai food is prepared in small pieces so it does not need cutting at the table. The soup plate was also adopted.
Whether one talk about food recipes or eating habits, the Thais seem to have a unique way of adapting - rather than adopting - things foreign and, even though most of their dishes have origins in other cultures, over the years, they have become distinctly Thai lifestyle.
EATING ITALIAN STYLE
A guiding principle in Italian dining is that you eat one food at a time and that every food has its place. If you order a light supper of pasta and salad at an informal trattoria, you will be served the pasta first and the salad after. If you want to start your meal with a salad, the key word is come, as in come antipasto, vorrei un insalata mista (as an antipasto, I would like a mixed salad), or comme secondo, vorrei un contorno (as a second course, I would like a vegetable).
But it is different with Indonesian eating style. Usually the Indonesian use fingers for eating in some places. Both hands are kept above the table while eating. They also usually eat “Lalapan,” especially the Sundanese people. They really like to eat “Lalapan” because it is a healthy food.

HOW TO EAT IN INDONESIAN
The basic diet on most of the islands is rice (nasi), lots of it, supplemented with vegetables, a bit of fish, and, once in a while, savory meat and eggs. Anything with the word nasi in front of it means it's prepared or served with rice. All traditional Indonesian food is designed to complement or be complemented by rice. For Indonesians, the whiter the rice, and the more it's been hulled and slipped, the tastier it is. White rice serves as a sharp counterpoint to the spiciness and heat of Indonesian food.
· Social events generally start late. Indonesians usually arrive thirty minutes after the stated time.
· Any business discussions at social events should be initiated by Indonesians.
· A fork and spoon are used for dining. The fork is held in the left hand and the spoon in the right. Use the fork to push food onto the spoon.
· Most Indonesians are Muslim and consume no liquor or pork.
· Indonesians are known for their hospitality. Do not reject their hospitality, as it will be viewed as a personal rejection. Never refuse food or drink, but never finish either completely. Compliments about the food are appreciated. It is a special honor to be invited to an Indonesian's home.
· The host is always the last to sit and eat. Men are generally served first. Wait to be invited to eat or drink.
· The guest of honor or senior person begins the meal; this is a distinct honor. If you are asked to begin the meal, you should refuse twice and then begin.
· Fingers are still used for eating in some places. Both hands are kept above the table while eating.
· The person who invites is expected to pay the bill in a restaurant. Request the bill by making a scribbling gesture on the palm of your hand.
· When finished with the meal, place the fork (tines down) on your plate with your spoon (down) crossed over the fork.
If possible, reciprocate with a dinner before you leave the country. A lavish dinner may be criticized; be generous and hospitable, but don't overdo it.