A Restaurant Ettiquette Question

[andy-hughes]

When we are dining out with friends, and I have a steak, or an Italian, I usually order a basket of bread and butter.

My wife then says I should offer the bread around to the other diners at our table.

I disagree - I ordered the bread for me to eat with my meal, and if anyone else wants bread they are welcome to do the same.

I would not assume that someone else's basket was for sharing, and expect to be offered some.

This has caused an argument, and we both think we are in the right - what do others think?

[eleanor2]

I'm with you andy.

[eleanor2]

It's kind of like others wanting to try something off your plate because it looks good and tasting it. Hey, get your own!

[237SJ]

I can't say I have ever been anywhere where my bread comes in a basket. I would just ask for a bread roll but if the bread came in a basket I would offer it around as that is what you do.

[Bobbisox1]

Difficult one but I think as the bread is in a basket it could be good manners to ‘offer’ it to the others as well

[Mamyalynne]

I have no idea whata basket of bread contains, if it's just enough for one then you are right.

[webbo3]

Its your bread, they can order their own, its not like in a French restaurant where they bring a big basket of bread fir the table.

[EdmundD]

In that situation I would say I am ordering bread for myself - does any body else want bread?

If the answer is yes from anyone ask for the additional bread.

If the answer is no then you are quite entitled to assume your bread is yours alone

[Bobbisox1]

Was in slices Andy? Of a ‘tear’ one

[eleanor2]

If a basket of bread was meant to be shared by companny, it would normally be ordered in full knowledge as such between the guests.

[Bobbisox1]

I think I’d be inclined to ask if anyone wanted some ?

[anneasquith]

Not worth an argument. When ordering . Order ‘ bread for the table ‘

[eleanor2]

I'd have asked when everyone was ordering, shall we order bread to share? If people don't ask, it's not fair to presume one person's bread is there for others too?

[Atheist]

I think you're a bit anti-social; or at least you would have been when it was considered acceptable to share and pass bread between friends. Nowadays, I would politely say 'thank you, no' and be glad that you were sensitive enough to pretend to be selfish.

[eleanor2]

Yes specifically, bread for the table.

[Ken4155]

It's your bread Andy, you ordered it for yourself. If anyone tries to take any from you, stab them with your fork. Twice!

[Buenchico]

>>> This has caused an argument, and we both think we are in the right - what do others think?

I think that, by posting online so that you can then say "I told you so" to your missus, you're courting certain disaster ;-)

[Oh, BTW, I'm siding with you here, Andy, unless, of course, it's a massive basket of bread that you're not going to get through on your own].

[Atheist]

Andy; what size basket do you order? If I ordered a case of wine, I would assume that my companions would assume that it was meant to be a generous gesture. When you dine with friends, do they usually order a basket of bread for each person? Personally, I think you're a bit odd.

[eleanor2]

Might be your ... 'last supper' andy ;0)

[Sqad]

LOL......what a big deal.
I would offer the bread around the table and if your basket was depleted, then ask the waiter for more bread.

[Bobbisox1]

It puts a whole new slant on
‘Breaking bread with friends ‘