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A hot steaming bowl of pho from your local Vietnamese restaurant is sure to sate your appetite. Before you sit down to eat, there are a few norms you should be aware of for the best eating experience. Below, you’ll find a list of do’s and don’ts that will ensure you have a great time without committing any social blunders.  

Do

Wait for Everyone Before You Begin 

It’s common courtesy to wait for everyone else at the table to receive their meal before you begin eating, a custom that communicates respect and humility. Even though the food will look so delicious you’ll want to dig right in, a little patience goes a long way. 

Serve Your Elders First 

Respecting your elders is a big theme in Vietnamese culture. If you’re at a traditional restaurant, follow their example by dishing out those spring rolls and other appetizers to your parents or older friends first. 

Practice Good Chopstick Etiquette 

If you want to have an authentic experience when eating at a Vietnamese restaurant, then try using chopsticks. When doing so, it’s important not to point with your chopsticks, as this is considered rude in most Asian cultures. Also, never stick your chopsticks directly into a bowl of rice, as doing so is a sign of bad luck. 

Don’t

vietnamese-restaurantBe Afraid to Add Condiments 

Vietnamese pho and other dishes are often served along with traditional condiments meant to flavor them to your liking, so don’t be afraid to adjust it until it tastes just how you want it. 

Go Overboard With the Spices

Some Vietnamese foods are known for being notoriously spicy, so if you’ve never tried a dish, it’s best to start out slow with the spice. Otherwise, you might find yourself with a plate that’s too hot to eat. 

Flip the Fish 

In Vietnamese culture, when you’re at a restaurant and order a fish plate, never flip the fish over. If you’re anywhere near the sea, doing so is thought to bring bad luck to fisherman because it signifies a ship going under. 

 

By following the suggestions above, you’ll be sure to have a delightful visit to your local Vietnamese restaurant. If you’ve worked up an appetite reading this article, Pho’ Vietnam in Anchorage, AK, can sate your hunger. Known for offering the area’s most authentic Vietnamese food, visit them today to try their mouth-watering pho soup or one of their traditional specialty dishes. Call (907) 274-2033 to place your order or visit them online to see their menu. 

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