Many people underestimate the role of proper table manners, especially when it comes to the small details that shape a dining experience. A Moscow 24 feature with insights from an etiquette and communication expert, Olga Svezhakova, highlights some of the most common missteps at the table.
In Russia, there is a traditional expectation that food should be cut into pieces small enough to fit easily in the mouth. After trimming a bite, it is customary to skewer it with a fork and take it in one controlled mouthful. The practical suggestion from Svezhakova is to reserve the use of toothpicks for private settings rather than public dining—keeping the table presentation clean and respectful for everyone present. This helps preserve a sense of decorum and makes meals feel more refined and comfortable for all guests.
Another area where etiquette guides practical behavior is the approach to paying the bill after meetings, lunches, or social engagements. The guidance shared emphasizes that the party who invites the guest should typically take care of the expenses. If the invitation is made with a clear statement like “Let me invite you” or “I invite you,” the host or inviter is expected to cover the costs. Conversely, if the invitation is more open-ended with phrases like “Let’s go,” the responsibility for payment can be shared, or guests may settle their own way. If a person offers to pay on a date, that person usually assumes the billing role, though guests still have the option to contribute through a generous tip to acknowledge the shared experience. The aim is to maintain courtesy and fairness without placing pressure on the guest or making the payer feel obligated beyond the social norm.
Etiquette expert Alevtina Rogova has also offered guidance on thoughtful gestures during celebrations. She notes that for occasions like March 8, women may receive tokens such as certificates, flowers, concert tickets, or fresh desserts. If alcohol is involved, opting for lighter, celebratory options like champagne or wine is common; however, she cautions against giving strong spirits or high-alcohol beverages, and warns against gifts like watches that might be misinterpreted as overly intimate or inappropriate in certain contexts. The focus remains on kindness, appreciation, and maintaining comfort for everyone involved.
Practical etiquette also extends to daily commutes and transportation. For instance, deciding whether it is appropriate to talk on the phone while traveling depends on the setting and the company. In busy transit environments, a courteous approach is to minimize loud conversations and respect others who share the space. If discussing important matters, a quieter tone and shorter messages help keep the atmosphere pleasant for all passengers. These small adjustments can make everyday travel more considerate and less disruptive, reinforcing a culture of mutual respect in public spaces.