Ukrainian Hospitality and Etiquette

“This beautiful country has small traditional differences in customs, because it was located on a large territory. One of the most famous cultural features is Ukrainian hospitality.”

There are many interesting traditions and rites in Ukraine. This cultural treasure was passed down through the generations. Something remained in the past, and something was acquired. This beautiful country has small traditional differences in customs, because it was located on a large territory. One of the most famous cultural features is Ukrainian hospitality. 

We will consider the good manners of the guest and the host, as well as the rules of hospitality that you can find in most families today using the example of a classic dinner party. Guests are invited at least a week in advance. The host and hostess always carefully prepare for this event, because in Ukrainian culture a guest is an important person. 

The hostess prepares many different dishes so that the guests can not only appreciate the culinary skill, but also not stay hungry. Food on the table is as an important element of hospitality as it was then, and today. One of the key symbols of Ukrainian hospitality is bread and salt, which are necessarily present on every table.

Guests must arrive on time or up to 30 minutes late. Coming earlier is a sign of bad manners. A well-mannered person may come with a gift to the hosts. It can be something small to express attention. Wine or champagne, a box of candies or other sweets. It is also possible to present flowers to the mistress of the house.

When there are children in the house, they are usually given fruits, sweets or small toys. However, it is important to emphasize that before giving children something, you should ask their parents for permission first.

When the guests have gathered, bread, snacks, and salads are already on the table. Everything is served on common plates. The hostess presents her dishes and helps to lay out the treats from the common platter to the guests. 

After common meals, guests can take a break and leave the table. The hostess removes everything from the table except the glasses. Then a table is served for hot beverages and cake or other sweets. Іn Ukraine cakes, pastries and chocolate are always served together with tea and coffee.

The host usually offers alcohol and is responsible for ensuring that each guest has a glass filled with either wine or “uzvar” (Ukrainian drink) etc…

After a short period of time, the main dishes are served on common plates. It happens like this: either the hostess serves a dish to each guest on a plate in turn, or the guests pass the dish to each other, personally placing the dish on their plate.

Communication is an integral part of the evening, guests and hosts conduct various conversations on comfortable topics, maintaining a friendly and warm atmosphere.

Guests must arrive on time or up to 30 minutes late. Coming earlier is a sign of bad manners.

After common meals, guests can take a break and leave the table. The hostess removes everything from the table except the glasses. Then a table is served for hot beverages and cake or other sweets. Іn Ukraine cakes, pastries and chocolate are always served together with tea and coffee.

After dessert, the evening comes to an end, the guests are still communicating, but little by little they begin to go home. The hosts will always kindly offer to call a taxi to those who were driving, in order to take care of the guests' safety.

After the dinner is over, the next day it will be polite of the guests to write or call the hosts and thank them for a wonderful evening.

Ukrainians are very hospitable people, and you will definitely see this when you visit their homes. Just do not forget about these small recommendations - this way you will show your respect to the hosts. – By Alisa Kazka

                               

 Our newest contributor is etiquette authority, Alisa Kazka of Ukraine. Alisa is the founder of the “Way of Living: Etiquette School.” She is an etiquette enthusiast and her expertise as a table stylist may be known to followers of our table setting competition. Engaged in the business of etiquette for more than 5 years now, she teaches adults and children good manners, how to become confident and to be internally free in various life situations, stressing the importance of mutual respect and getting to know other cultures. One of her favorite subjects is the topic of hospitality… high service, dining etiquette and gastronomy. You cab follow Alisa on Instagram: @alisa_kazka or her school, @way.of.living_etiquette

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