Table manners: Holiday dining etiquette

The informal brunch

Did you know? Flatware, rather than silverware, is a more accurate term because not all forks, knives and spoons are made of silver; flatware refers to utensils made of any kind of metal. In some places, especially the United Kingdom, the term cutlery is also used.

The rules aren't hard and fast for informal meals like brunch. Let your menu be the guide. Here's how we set our table.

Plates and bowls Since this brunch starts with cereal or granola, we set a bowl on top of the plate. A large plate is best since brunch menus usually include eggs, other hot dishes and some salads.

Flatware A fork, knife and cereal spoon should suffice. If you're serving salads before the hot course, you may wish to add a salad fork. The teaspoon can sit right on the saucer.

Glasses and cups A goblet for juice or mimosas sits above the knife. The cup and saucer can move to the right when the goblet is cleared and tea and coffee are served. For brunches when tea and coffee are consumed throughout the meal, the cup and saucer would sit at the right, above the knife. Add an elegant note by using goblets instead of plain juice or highball glasses at a holiday brunch.

Read more in Food & Entertaining and Tabletop Ideas