emperor: (Default)
emperor ([personal profile] emperor) wrote2010-06-03 10:48 am
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We had a few friends round for dinner last night, and I set the table as I usually do; this prompted some discussion of where the pudding utensils should have been arranged...

[Poll #1573723]

[identity profile] robert-jones.livejournal.com 2010-06-03 11:27 am (UTC)(link)
Place setting is one of those subjects on which opinions do differ. For instance, I've seen it said that a place-setting out to have no more than three pieces of silverware on any side, and if more is required it should be relaid half-way through the meal. But on the other hand, I've certainly been to many formal dinners where vast ranks of silverware have been laid on either side of the place-setting.

It does seem to be usual though, to lay at least some silverware at the top of the place-setting, either for the sweet or the savoury course (but never for dessert). I think it gives the place-setting a nicely rounded look. Sometimes the staff move the utensils in question to the sides before serving the relevent course.