50 Vietnamese Dining Table Etiquette Rules

Last update: 2026-02-21

Note: These are traditional etiquette guidelines you may find helpful to know. However, they are cultural references — not strict rules that visitors are required to follow.

Understanding Vietnamese Dining Etiquette

Vietnamese dining etiquette is deeply rooted in family structure, respect for elders, and the communal nature of meals. Traditionally, meals are not individual experiences but shared moments that reinforce social harmony. The dining table reflects broader cultural values: modesty, attentiveness to others, gratitude for food, and awareness of hierarchy within the family.

Many of these rules developed in agrarian communities, where food was the result of collective labor and should never be wasted. Respecting elders, waiting for the host, and avoiding behavior that disrupts the atmosphere are all expressions of consideration rather than rigid formalities.

It is important to understand that these guidelines represent traditional norms passed down through generations. Modern Vietnamese families may follow them to varying degrees, especially in urban settings. For visitors, these rules are helpful cultural insights — not strict requirements. Demonstrating politeness, mindfulness, and appreciation is far more important than memorizing every detail.

I. Using Chopsticks

Do not tap your rice bowl more than three times when lifting it to your mouth.
Do not pick up food and put it directly into your mouth; place it into your own bowl first.
Do not stir shared dishes with your personal spoon or chopsticks.
Do not dig through a dish to search for the best piece.
Do not stick chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice.
Do not dip the entire tip of your chopsticks into the dipping sauce bowl.
Turn the opposite end of your chopsticks when serving food to others.
Do not bite your chopsticks, spoon, or bowl rim, and do not lick chopsticks.
Do not hold both your bowl and chopsticks in one hand at the same time, and do not hold chopsticks in your mouth while using your hands for other tasks. When not in use, place chopsticks neatly on the tray, table, or chopstick rest.

II. Sitting and Eating

Do not shake your legs while eating, whether seated on a mat or a chair — it is considered impolite.
Do not sit too close to or too far from the tray or table.
Sit upright on a chair. When seated on a mat, move your upper body if needed but do not lift your hips.
Do not hide your hands under the table or lean heavily on it while holding your bowl. When not lifting the bowl, rest your wrists lightly on the table.
Do not rest your chin on your hand at the table.
Never speak with a mouth full of food.
Do not blow loudly on hot food; instead, eat from the cooler edges of the bowl.
Soup spoons should rest face down in the bowl when not in use.
When dipping food into sauce, dip only the food — not the chopsticks — and never dip a half-eaten piece.
Avoid making smacking sounds while chewing.
Do not make loud eating noises (such as slurping excessively).
Do not talk, drink alcohol, or sip soup while your mouth is still full of rice.
Do not tap chopsticks, bowls, or spoons.
For soups or porridge served in small bowls, you may lift the bowl with both hands to drink. For larger bowls or deep plates, use a spoon instead of lifting the entire bowl to your mouth.
Do not begin eating before elders. Wait until they lift their bowl. As a guest, do not take food before the host unless invited to do so.
Never criticize food, even if it does not suit your taste. This reflects respect for the effort and labor behind the meal.
Do not repeatedly take food from only one dish, even if it is your favorite.
Taste the food first before adding extra salt, pepper, chili, or lime.
Finish all the food in your bowl; do not leave leftover rice grains.
Remember to clear small bowls used for bones or shells when clearing the table.
Very young children may eat separately under supervision. By around age six, children are expected to join the family meal and follow basic etiquette.
If a dish is out of reach, ask an adult to pass it instead of leaning across the table.
Do not place personal belongings on the dining table. Mobile phones are considered inappropriate and unhygienic.
Always set aside a clean portion for someone who will arrive late; never leave them leftovers from partially eaten dishes.
Eat calmly and unhurriedly; do not eat while walking.
Keep the table clean — avoid spilling food or leaving stains.
If you encounter a bone or foreign object in your food, remove it discreetly instead of spitting it out at the table.
Only elderly people (around 70+) and very young children are excused for burping at the table.
If you need to sneeze or blow your nose, excuse yourself from the table.
When hosting guests, avoid making dishes overly spicy; serve chili or strong condiments separately.
Avoid bumping hands with others at the table. If you are left-handed, mention it beforehand for seating convenience.
Be mindful of loose sleeves when reaching for food.
If a piece of food is too large, suggest cutting it into smaller portions for easier sharing.
If you need to leave the table during the meal, ask permission first.
Always say thank you after the meal, even within close family settings.
Customs for inviting others to eat vary by family. Observe the host’s practice rather than imposing your own habits.
If you need to reapply lipstick, excuse yourself to the restroom instead of doing so at the table.
Sit according to the host’s seating arrangement; do not sit before being invited.
Traditionally, differences in hand positioning while serving could reflect social hierarchy.
Do not drink excessively.
Inform your host in advance about dietary restrictions or allergies to avoid inconvenience.

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