Dining Etiquette of Kings and Queens

It is said that King Edward VII made many changes to Dining in England during his time is King. He famously banished fish knives and forks from royal dining tables, condemning them as “very common.” This sentiment reflected a class divide of the era, where the upper-class “old money” aristocracy viewed the use of specialized fish cutlery as a tacky trait of the newly rich. The aristocracy used a fork on both the right and left sides of the plate to eat their fish. The King was also the one who started the custom of eating asparagus with his fingers at the table, and It was during the Edwardian Era that women could go into a restaurants on accompanied by men for the first time and feel comfortable. — An intimate table with settings fit for a King or Queen

Unique Principles of Table Etiquette of the European Monarchies

Among the Royal Courts of Europe, the dining table has always been far more than a place to eat. It is a stage — carefully choreographed, rich in symbolism and steeped in centuries of tradition. And yet, while the Monarchies of Europe share a common foundation of formal dining protocol, fascinating differences reveal the distinct character of each royal house.

In Britain, the Royal table is governed by strict precedence. Guests follow the sovereign's lead in all things — no one begins eating before the Monarch, and no one continues once the King or Queen has finished. Menus at Buckingham Palace were traditionally written in French for centuries, a custom only recently relaxed. The placement of cutlery, the folding of napkins and the sequence of courses follow rules that have changed little in over a hundred years.

The Spanish Royal House blends formal European protocol with the warmth characteristic of Spanish culture. The *sobremesa* — that cherished post-meal conversation — finds its place even at the most formal of royal tables, reflecting the deeply human side of Spanish hospitality.

In Sweden, Norway and Denmark, the Scandinavian Monarchies maintain formal protocol while embracing a notably more relaxed and egalitarian spirit at the table. Toasts are an important ritual, led by the host, and eye contact during a toast is considered a mark of sincerity and respect.

What unites all European Royal tables, however, is the understanding that dining is a diplomatic art. Every detail — from the arrangement of crystal to the order of precedence at seating — communicates respect, hierarchy and cultural identity.

True elegance is never accidental. It is the result of intention, hard work, knowledge and a genuine desire to honor those seated beside you.

Meet our newest contributor, Isabel. E. Martinez, who was educated in Business Management at the Universidad Católica Andrés Bello, in Caracas, Venezuela. After relocating for a few years to Miami, Florida, Isabel developed a company teaching computer skills. Among her clients were Baccardi in Bermuda, and Mavesa, Telcel (Movistar), and Heinz in Venezuela. That is when she discovered her passion for teaching. As her children became adults, she shifted her focus and dedicated her time to teach on subjects she is very passionate about; Hospitality and Table Etiquette. Throughout workshops in English and in Spanish, Isabel works with employees in the hospitality industry, and those business professionals who when interacting with customers, would like to make sure that they are the most professional representations of their companies. Especially when attending business lunches and events. She also offers youth and teen courses in etiquette, helping them to excel with integrity and pride in whatever field they desire to pursue. To learn more about Isabel, visit her website: www.learningschool2.com or @isasetiquette 

🍽Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber of The RSVP Institute of Etiquette, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia