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American vs European Style of Dining



Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee,

I spent the summer in Europe and now I like eating European style and not switch the fork back and forth after cutting my meat. However, my mother tells me that since I'm back in the U.S., I should eat American style. What do you think?

Signed,

European Preference

Dear European Preference,

Either method is acceptable. Eat the way with which you're most comfortable.

For those who don't know, the European or Continental style is where you keep the knife in the right hand (assuming you're right handed), and eat with your fork in the left. The fork prongs are kept curved down. The American style is where you cut the meat with the knife in the right hand and fork in the left, but switch the fork from left to right after cutting the meat. The fork prongs are curved up to scoop or spear food.

Whatever method you use, only cut a piece or two of meat at a time.




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