Every family and every group of friends has them. Nobody wrote them down and nobody voted on them, yet everyone knows when one has been broken. These are the ones we keep coming back to.
1. Phones face down, or better, in another room
A phone on the table is a guest who keeps checking the door. If you're waiting for a call, say so, and step away when it comes.
2. Whoever cooks doesn't clean
It is the oldest deal in the house, and the fairest. The cook gets a glass and a chair. Everyone else gets a tea towel.
3. Nobody starts until everyone is served
Unless the host says to start. Then you start, because hot food waiting for manners is a waste of both.
4. The last to arrive opens the next bottle
Being late is forgiven quickly when it comes with a corkscrew.
5. Ask, don't reach
Reaching across three people for the salt is how glasses fall over. Ask for it, and pass things on in one direction.
6. Second helpings are the best compliment
Take them, and tell the cook. It is the only review that matters.
7. The good stories come after dessert
Don't clear too fast. The table after the meal, with crumbs, candle stubs and half-full glasses, is where people finally talk.
8. There is always room for one more
Someone brings a friend. Someone's plans fall through. Squeeze in a chair and move the plates closer. The table is better for it.
9. Children sit at the table
Not at a separate one in the kitchen. Children learn how adults talk to each other by listening to them. Give them a real seat and a real part in the conversation.
10. Nobody leaves the table in a hurry
The goodbyes happen at the table first. Then they happen again in the hallway, and once more at the door.
Every table has one rule we haven't heard. Tell us yours: tag @accordiontable, and we may share it here.
