Shared Dishes, Not Individual Plates
Chinese meals are communal — multiple dishes in the center for everyone to share. Take small portions and pass dishes clockwise.
Chopstick Etiquette
Never stick chopsticks upright in rice (resembles funeral incense). Don’t tap chopsticks on bowls (beggars’ gesture). Use the serving end when taking food from shared plates.
Toasting (Ganbei 干杯)
When someone toasts, stand up if older than you. Touch your glass lower than theirs as a sign of respect. ‘Ganbei’ means ‘dry the glass’ — you should actually drink.
Tea Culture
When someone pours tea for you, tap two fingers on the table to silently say ‘thank you’. Refilling others’ cups before your own shows respect.
Paying the Bill
Expect vigorous arguments over who pays. As a guest, you may be expected to defer to the host. Splitting the bill (‘AA’) is becoming more common among younger generations.
Regional Variations
Northern dining favors wheat (noodles, dumplings); southern emphasizes rice. Sichuan and Hunan food is very spicy. Muslim-friendly halal options widely available.
FAQ
Is it rude to leave food on my plate?
In some regions yes — finishing your plate suggests the host didn’t serve enough. Leaving a small amount is often polite.
What if I can’t eat spicy food?
Say ‘bu yao la’ (不要辣, no spicy) when ordering. Most restaurants accommodate, especially in tourist areas.
