Where does the napkin go on the table according to etiquette?
How many of us have set the table and asked ourselves the fateful question: does the napkin go on the right or the left of the plate? You'll be happy to know that this is not a trivial matter, and in fact, there are several schools of thought on the subject.
In this article, we'll look at the most common traditions and trends, what etiquette dictates, and what options you have for preparing a perfect mise en place!
The napkin's position: a fundamental detail
The position of the napkin on the table is a detail that makes a difference and distinguishes a professionally set table from a more informal one. You need to find a good balance between the plates, glasses, cutlery, and napkin so that everything appears harmonious and symmetrical.
Here's the number one rule: the napkin must be visually pleasing but also functional. What does this mean? It means it must be within reach, easy to pick up and use, and therefore, it should never be placed under the cutlery! This is because if you place it under the cutlery on the table, the diner is forced to move their fork and knife to retrieve it. In practice, you spend time on the mise en place, and your guest has to disrupt it to reach the napkin. It's counterproductive, isn't it? But don't worry, it's a mistake we've all made.
Remember, every aesthetic choice must always be accompanied by practicality. For example, no one forbids you from folding napkins elegantly, as long as it remains functional for the diner.
The napkin must be visually pleasing but also functional.
Tradition and etiquette: the napkin on the left
Following table etiquette shows a certain care and attention to tradition. According to etiquette, placing the napkin to the left of the plate aligns with the idea that guests should be able to pick it up without any hindrance to their movements.
However, this is not an absolute rule! It's called "English-style mise en place" and is probably what we are most used to. Some place the napkin slightly under the plate, or next to the forks; others use ribbons or metal rings so that decorated napkins also contribute to a scenic effect.
Please note: according to cutlery etiquette, forks go to the left of the plate, while knives and spoons go to the right. Cutlery is arranged on either side of the plate in the order it will be used, starting from the outside. This means that the napkin should be positioned to the left of the forks.
Naturally, you can choose a color that matches the floral centerpiece or the charger plates, or you can echo the pattern of the runner; anything is permissible as long as the result is elegant and balanced.
Napkin on the right: when and why to choose it
If you thought placing the napkin on the right was a mistake, you were wrong. The "French-style mise en place" specifically dictates that the napkin should be to the right of the plate. The reason? For practicality: most people eat and cut with their right hand, so having the napkin within easy reach might feel more intuitive.
The position of the cutlery is the same, but according to French tradition, the tines should face downwards. This is because, in the past, the family crest was engraved on the back of the cutlery, symbolizing prestige and refinement.
Even in this case, nothing prevents you from creating napkin decorations if you want to add a touch of creativity, as long as they don't hinder movement and don't disrupt the overall harmony.
How to match the napkin with other table elements
It is important that the mise en place follows a central theme for both colors and shapes. The napkin must dialogue with the rest of the arrangement, and everything must appear in its place.
- ● Materials: The choice of fabrics is fundamental. For example, linen napkins should be paired with a tablecloth or runner of the same material to create continuity.
- ● Colors: The colors of the napkin must be in harmony with those of the other elements. Our advice is to choose charger plates or a runner with similar shades or patterns.
- ● Sizes: The size of the napkins must be appropriate for the occasion, as well as the tablecloth sizes. Remember that cloth napkins are generally larger than paper ones, and the tablecloth should overhang the table by about 25-30 cm.
