Language/Georgian/Culture/Table-Manners
As a Georgian language teacher, I believe that learning about a country’s culture is just as important as mastering its language. In this lesson, we will be discussing proper etiquette and table manners in Georgian culture. While dining customs vary across different regions of Georgia, there is a set of general rules that most Georgians follow.
General Dining Etiquette
When dining in Georgia, it is considered polite to wait for the host to begin before eating or drinking. Be sure to show interest in the dishes being served and try a little bit of everything. It is also a sign of respect to offer food to others at the table before serving yourself. Lastly, it is common practice to use a fork and knife while eating, rather than just a fork.
Seating Etiquette
When attending a formal Georgian dinner, it is important to remember that seating arrangements are meticulously planned. The most honored guest is typically seated at the head of the table, with the host or hostess sitting next to them. The remaining guests will be seated in a way that reflects their status or age.
Toasting Etiquette
Toasting is an important part of Georgian culture and is typically done with wine or chacha, a type of grape brandy. When a toast is proposed, it is customary to stand up and hold your glass in your right hand. Do not take a sip of your drink until after the toast has been completed. It is also polite to propose a toast in return, and to compliment the food and wine being served.
Table Setting
In Georgia, the table is set with a variety of dishes that are placed in the center of the table. Guests will take from these dishes and serve themselves. Cutlery is provided, and each guest is typically given a spoon, knife, and fork. In some regions, bread may be served in a traditional Georgian tone, which is a clay vessel that has been used for baking bread for centuries.
Here is a table to help you learn some key phrases:
| Georgian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| მადარად მზად | madarad mzad | Ready to eat |
| ლეღვა | leghva | Fork |
| ტირალი | tiral | Spoon |
| საჭმელი | sachmeli | Meal |
| ხინკარი | xinkari | Wineglass |
| პური | puri | Bread |
| მცირე ქველი | mtsire kveli | Small plate |
| დიდი ქველი | didi kveli | Large plate |
I hope this lesson has been helpful in understanding Georgian table manners and dining etiquette. Remember, when in doubt, simply follow the lead of your Georgian hosts. By showing grace and respect during mealtime, you’ll be sure to leave a lasting impression.