Silent service code facts for kids

Dinner guests at a fancy meal, showing how plates are cleared (1950)

Have you ever wondered how people at fancy dinners tell the waitstaff if they're done eating without saying a word? That's where the silent service code comes in! It's a special way for diners to use their forks, knives, and spoons to show if they are finished with their meal. This helps make sure no one takes your plate away too soon! People often learn this code in classes about good manners, especially for business meals.

How to Signal You're Finished

When you are completely done with your food, there's a simple way to let the waitstaff know.

• Place your napkin to the left side of your plate.
• Put your utensils (like your fork and knife) together on your plate.
• Imagine your plate is a clock. Place your utensils pointing towards the "4 o'clock" position. This tells the server you are finished and they can clear your plate.

This signal works for most types of table service. Even if there isn't waitstaff, the person hosting the meal might use these signals to know when to clear the table.

How to Signal You're Still Eating

Sometimes, you might pause eating but aren't finished yet.

• If you are still enjoying your meal, simply cross your utensils on your plate. This tells everyone that you are taking a break but will continue eating soon.

What to Do if You Leave the Table

What if you need to leave the table for a moment, like to use the restroom, but you haven't finished your food?

• Place your napkin on your chair. This signal lets the waitstaff know that you are not finished with your meal and will be returning to your seat.