“Finger-Eating” Etiquette

Even at formal dinners, “finger-eating” is the well-mannered method for certain foods. Glamorous artichokes are properly eaten with the fingers down to the “heart,” which is in the fork territory. – Above, an individual artichoke plate with bowl for butter.

Green Light Shines On ‘Finger-Eating’

Is it ever proper to eat with your fingers? Etiquette experts say “yes!” Even at formal dinners, “finger-eating” is the well-mannered method for certain foods. Glamorous artichokes are properly eaten with the fingers down to the “heart,” which is in the fork territory. Asparagus, when not covered with a sauce,may be picked up with the fingers in the best of style. There's no need to hesitate to serve guests dishes such as fried chicken or corn on the cob, because they are difficult to eat with knives and forks. Lead the way by picking up the food as a cue to your guests. 

Helpful Deed 

At “sit-down” dinners, the thoughtful hostess provides two large napkins at each place for wiping fingers. Here are some additional socially correct finger foods: 

BACON –If the bacon is crisp, it may be eaten with the fingers. But if you prefer your bacon less than crumble-dry, a knife and fork are required. 

CAKE –Tiny cakes, such as petit-fours, should be eaten with the fingers. Pound cake may be broken into bite-size pieces and also eaten with the fingers. Sticky cake or a larger portion, requires a fork.

 Not in N.Y…

 CHlCKEN— Geography has some effect on chicken manners. According to the experts, fried or broiled chicken may be picked up and eaten with the fingers everywhere, except in New York. In this Eastern area, chicken served at formal dinners calls for knives and forks. Finger eating is for informal occasions only. 

But in other states, it’s considered perfectly acceptable to pick up serving-size pieces of fried or broiled chicken for all occasions. 

RELISHES – Celery and olives should be eaten with the fingers, except when they are a part of a salad or cooked dish. Radishes and small pickles are also finger-food. 

FRUIT – Fresh apricots, cherries, grapes, and plums are always eaten with the fingers. However, when eating fresh apples and pears at the table, peel and quarter with a table knife before eating with the fingers. – Desert Sun, 1963

Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia