On the other hand, if I were to attempt to “fit in” with the “upper crust,” I might attempt some of these maneuvers, unwieldy as they might be.

But, if you were to eat like that at the places I eat, you’d be something of a scene. So, my question for you is this: If you were to visit a “down home” establishment in the deep South, would you try to eat like we do? I can assure you that the waiters down here won’t have a clue what you’re trying to do with the silverware and they’ll be equally confused with the napkin tricks.

I also wanted to comment on the previous poster’s opinion that the wait staff should only speak when “required:” most of the people I know and choose to associate myself choose to treat their waiters as human beings and equals and not “lessers.”

Manners, in my opinion, are opening the door for women and the elderly, pulling back the chairs for the same, not eating with my mouth open, treating others as I’d like to be treated and trying to make sure that everyone is COMFORTABLE and having a good time.

Of course, I’m just a country boy at heart and in rearing, but I’m also a moderately successful businessman who has hosted literally hundreds of business dinners. Never once has my lack of knowledge on the finer points of silverware placement been an issue and I rather doubt that I’d be interested in pursuing a business relationship with someone who was more worried about which hand I held my fork in than what the bottom line on an investment opportunity was.

Best Wishes to all.