What Do You Say Before a Meal?

Most people are surprised to hear that we don’t say anything.

Of course, after having lived in Germany for so many years, I have to say something (and, of course, it can’t do any harm).

So what might I say?

I might say something like :

• „I hope you have a nice meal!“,
• „I hope you enjoy your food!“,
• „I hope you enjoy what you’re eating!“ or simply
• „Enjoy!“

It’s also quite acceptable to wish someone „Bon appetit“—one of the many French phrases adopted by the English language.

And if you want to know what good table manners are, watch etiquette expert William Hanson explain them to Gino and Mel on ITV television. (And see how I was taught to eat my peas!)