Etiquette about elbows on table?

Question

I'm aware it's not proper to rest your elbows on the table during dinner some restaurants.

In what kind of restaurants is this like a big "no no"?

And also, is it not true that some higher class restaurants have menus with no prices meant to be seen by the female? I think this is a very old tradition which is no longer observed.

Answer 1

Linen napkin? No elbows.

Simple.

Its still a practice in some uber class restaurants to not have prices listed. Its considered passe and the understanding is that if you have to ask the price, you probably couldn't afford to eat there anyway.

Answer 2

Honestly, the no elbow rule should be everywhere - even at home. It sort of takes the whole cro magnon protecting the food vibe out of dinner. Yes, some restaurants still do the no price policy. We dined at the Navy club in Washington, a members only place, and there were no prices. In fact, a bill never even came to the table. Most places with no prices, also know who is there and how to get the money later.

Answer 3

My mom, and manner mentor, never accepted elbows on the table in ANY setting. The rule stems from the fact that you should never eat hurridly or as if you are starved.

Any guest, not just a woman, should have to be made to feel guilty over the food they are eating that someone else has offered to pay for. Yes, if restaurants don't list a price, it can be annoying, but the tradition's heart is in the right place. Doesn't it make you squirm when the person buying your meal studies the check like it's death and taxes?

Answer 4

What you feel comfortable with.

If your an elbows person then go to a place that allows that. This way you will feel more you and more relaxed hence you will have a better time.

Some of the best dinner I have had are when people have their elbows on the table, are having a good laugh and eating to their hearts content!

All the best

Answer 5

Your elbows should never be on the table. Etiquette doesn't dictate whether its home or away.