There are two styles of dining. American, sometimes called zig-zag, and Continental sometimes called European. There is no right or wrong style of dining to use. The only caveat is to consistently use one during a meal, and use your utensils correctly.

American Style/ Zig-Zag

The American style of dining is used most often by Americans. This method involves holding the fork in your left hand and the knife in your right hand to cut food. After cutting food, the knife is placed at the top of the plate, blade facing inward, the fork is then switched to the right hand and used to pick up food. The fork tines will be facing upward.

 

Continental Style/ European

The Continental style of dining began during the late 1850's. The European upper class who used to use the zig-zag style of dining stopped shifting their knives and forks. Thus began the Continental style of dining. When dining Continental style your fork remains in your left hand and your knife remains in your right hand. There is no switching back and forth after you have cut your food.  Food is eaten off the fork with the fork tines facing down.

 

The Continental style of dining is thought to be more graceful and expedient. Whichever style you choose, be sure that you use it consistently throughout the meal and that you are holding your utensils correctly.

 

There are many nuances involved in dining etiquette.  Using your utensils correctly, knowing where to place your silverware when you are pausing between bites, and knowing where to place your silverware when you have finished dining are significant details. These seemingly insignificant details are hallmarks of good dining etiquette. Learning dining skills is a lifetime investment with immeasurable returns.