Icelandic Table Etiquette: Unveiling the Dos and Don’ts

What is Table Etiquette in Iceland?

Table etiquette is an important part of any culture, and Iceland is no exception. The Icelandic culture is unique in many ways, so it comes as no surprise that their table manners are also quite unique.

The Icelandic Cuisine

The Icelandic cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients and its reliance on traditional cooking techniques. Like most Nordic countries, fish and lamb are staples of the Icelandic diet, along with dairy products. In addition to these staples, Icelanders also enjoy a variety of other meats, including reindeer, whale, and even puffin.

The Basics of Icelandic Table Etiquette

When dining in Iceland, there are certain basic rules of etiquette that you should keep in mind. Most of these rules are similar to those in other Western countries, but there are some differences that you should be aware of.

• Arrive on time: Punctuality is important in Iceland, so make sure that you arrive at the dinner table on time.
• Wash your hands: Before sitting down to eat, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.
• Wait to be seated: In Iceland, it is customary to wait to be seated by the host.
• Say “skál” before drinking: Before taking a sip of your drink, say “skál” (pronounced “skowl”) which means “cheers”.
• Use utensils: Although Icelanders traditionally ate with their hands, utensils are now commonly used in Iceland.
• Finish what’s on your plate: It is considered impolite to leave food on your plate in Iceland.
• Do not tip: It is not customary to tip in Iceland, as service charge is already included in the bill.

Dining as a Guest in Iceland

While the basic table manners in Iceland are similar to those found in other Western cultures, there are a few additional customs to keep in mind when dining as a guest in Iceland.

• Bring a gift: It is customary to bring a small gift to the host or hostess when invited to dinner in Iceland. This gift can be something small, such as flowers or chocolates.
• Compliment the food: Icelanders take great pride in their culinary traditions, so be sure to compliment the chef on the meal.
• Wait for the host to begin eating: It is polite to wait for the host to begin eating before starting your own meal.
• Thank the host: After the meal, be sure to thank the host for their hospitality and the delicious food.

Cultural Differences in Table Etiquette

When traveling to Iceland, it is important to keep in mind that there may be cultural differences in table etiquette. For example, in Iceland it is not considered rude to slurp your soup or make noise while eating. Additionally, it is common practice in Iceland to leave a little bit of food on your plate as a sign of respect to the host.

In conclusion,

Understanding the table etiquette in Iceland is an important aspect of traveling to this beautiful country. By following these simple rules of etiquette, you can ensure that you have an enjoyable and respectful dining experience. So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a meal with an Icelander, remember to arrive on time, use utensils, and thank your host for their hospitality!