Dining (in or out)

The potential for confusion and embarrassment here is huge; whether it's dining out or at someone's house, you're not safe. The pitfalls are many.   This chapter covers everything from different menu items, to what is not "allowed" in restaurants and what to do at someone's house.  

"Once you are seated in a restaurant, it is generally not the done thing to get up and leave, unless you need to go to the hospital!   Being a foreigner, you could obviously get away with it, and indeed no one can stop you as long as you are not leaving an unpaid bill.   The natives however, wouldn't dream of doing this and would also be highly embarrassed if any member of their party (i.e. you) tried to. .... Additionally, you will never be expected to keep your silverware from one course to the next.   Indeed, placing your dirty knife and fork on the tablecloth as the busboy approaches would be similar to tipping your plate upside down!"