Language/Lao/Culture/Eating-Customs-and-Etiquette
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Introduction
Food plays an important role in Lao culture, with a wide range of delicious dishes and ingredients unique to the country. In addition to the food itself, Lao people also have a set of customs and etiquette surrounding dining that visitors may find interesting to learn about. In this lesson, you will learn about Lao eating customs and etiquette, including table manners and dining practices.
Lao Eating Customs and Etiquette
When it comes to eating in Lao culture, there are many customs and etiquette rules that must be followed to show respect for those around you. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Table Manners
- Chopsticks: Chopsticks are a common utensil used for eating in Lao cuisine, although some dishes may be eaten with a spoon or hands. When using chopsticks, it is important to avoid stabbing at food or leaving them standing vertically in a bowl, as these actions are considered impolite.
- Sharing dishes: In Lao culture, it is common for dishes to be placed in the center of the table and shared among everyone. When taking food from shared dishes, use the opposite end of your chopsticks or a serving spoon to avoid contaminating the food.
- Serving order: When serving food, it is customary to first serve elders or guests of honor before yourself. It is also polite to offer your guests the best pieces of food first.
- Communal eating: Lao people often sit on the floor and share meals served on a low table or mat. When eating in this way, it is important to move slowly and not to take more than your fair share of food.
Dining Practices
- Saying "sabaidee" and "sapboun": Lao people are warm and welcoming, and it is common to greet each other with "sabaidee", which means "hello" or "good day", and "sapboun", which means "goodbye". These greetings are often accompanied by a slight bow or nod of the head.
- Using your right hand: When eating with your hands, or passing items to others, it is important to use your right hand, which is considered clean, rather than your left hand.
- Serving alcohol: Alcohol is often served at meals in Lao culture, but it is important to know your limits and not to overindulge. It is also customary to offer a toast, or "khoy", at the beginning of the meal.
- Leaving food: In Lao culture, it is considered wasteful and impolite to leave large amounts of food uneaten on your plate. It is better to serve yourself smaller portions initially and to take more later if needed.
- Paying the bill: When dining out in Lao, it is customary for the person who extended the invitation to pay the bill. It is also common for the host to refuse payment and for the guests to continue to insist, creating a back-and-forth exchange before the matter is settled.
Conclusion
By following these customs and etiquette practices, you will show respect for Lao culture and demonstrate your understanding of their dining traditions. Remember to be polite, move slowly, and enjoy the delicious food while surrounded by the warmth and hospitality of Lao people.
Other Lessons
- Festivals and Celebrations
- Laos Timeline
- Arts and Crafts
- Traditional Music
- Traditional Lao Dishes
- Greetings and Social Etiquette
Sources
- Lao Culture - Etiquette — Cultural Atlas
- ETIQUETTE AND CUSTOMS IN LAOS | Facts and Details
- Laos etiquette - things to notice - 18 Dos & Don'ts for tourists
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