Eating a meal as a royal is not nearly as casual as when we tuck into our favorite snacks and treats — at least not when you’re with the Queen. From a young age, family members are taught how to properly hold their utensils. The knife goes in the right hand, with the fork in the left hand, tines facing down at all times (via Reader’s Digest). Then, as each bite is taken, a royal must carefully balance the chicken or fish (again, no pasta!) on the back of the fork to savor it.
Meanwhile, say you want to use the bathroom — while not eating rice or potatoes. You would avoid making a big deal out of leaving the table, and to signal you aren’t done with your dish, you’d cross your fork and knife. This is the sign to the staff that you’ll be returning to meticulously munch on fare like fish and pheasant with vegetables (via British Heritage).
As far as signaling that you’re done eating, an insider is sharing how a royal would show the staff it’s time to clear their plate.
