What is the proper etiquette for eating quail?

Question

My boyfriend and I often go to restaurants in NYC - and he loves quail. But it's embarassing when he has to eat it with his hands in a very classy restaurant!

Is it just me, or is there a more proper way to eat the tiny little bird?

Answer 1

I think, if something can be comfortably handled in the hands, and that is the easiest way to do it, then it is ok.

That is a rule with chicken, as far as I know. I can't see why quail would or should be any different.

Answer 2

First, you remove the head of the quail and squeeze all of the filling out. Once that is accomplished you dispose of the feathers. Ball the filling up and roll it around in Malt-O-Meal. Spray on some Spam and Cook for 15 minutes on 350 degrees in a shallow baking pan. Remove from oven, sprinkle a little salt, enjoy

Answer 3

It is like I read in Miss Manners (yeah my mom made me read it ok) that there are many foods that are served and eaten differantly there is never a wrong time to eat something with a knife and fork. Asparagus is actually supposed to be eaten with your fingers as well...but we don't normally eat it like this.

If you are in a classy restaurant and your husband wants a fork and knife, they should give it to him. I know some chefs don't like it when people ask for salt (then why did they go to culinary school if they can't flavor food) but a fork will have no affect on the taste. Plus it is just cleaner. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

It's the same as chicken.

Answer 5

i concur.