Setting a soup spoon correctly is a simple yet crucial detail in proper table etiquette, indicating a thoughtful and organized dining experience. The soup spoon is positioned to the right of the dinner knife, furthest from the plate, preparing guests for the first course.
Understanding Basic Cutlery Placement
Proper table setting follows a logical order, making it intuitive for diners. Forks are generally placed to the left of the plate, while knives and spoons are positioned to the right. The general rule dictates that soup spoons should be placed on the right of the knives, with the blade edges of the knives facing inwards towards the plate. This arrangement ensures that all eating utensils are readily accessible and presented in a visually appealing manner.
The "Outermost In" Rule
A fundamental principle of table setting is the "outermost in" rule. This means that guests use the cutlery from the outside in, working their way towards the plate with each successive course. Since soup is typically served as an appetizer or first course, the soup spoon is placed on the far right, ready to be used first.
- Right Side: All knives and spoons are placed to the right of the dinner plate.
- Left Side: All forks are placed to the left of the dinner plate.
- Above the Plate: Dessert forks and spoons are often placed horizontally above the plate.
Types of Soup Spoons and Their Use
While the placement remains consistent, it's worth noting that there are different styles of soup spoons, each designed for specific types of soup.
- Cream Soup Spoon: This spoon has a round bowl, larger than a teaspoon but smaller than a serving spoon, and is designed for thicker, cream-based soups or purees.
- Bouillon Spoon: Featuring a smaller, rounder bowl and a shorter handle, the bouillon spoon is perfect for clear, broth-based soups or consommés. Its design allows for easy sipping without making a mess.
Regardless of the specific type, the placement rule remains the same: to the right of the knives.
Setting for Different Occasions
The formality of the occasion often dictates the complexity of the table setting. However, the placement of the soup spoon remains constant across most dining scenarios.
Formal Dining
In a formal setting, you might find multiple knives (e.g., dinner knife, fish knife), each with its corresponding fork. The soup spoon will always be the outermost utensil on the right side, signifying it as the first utensil to be used. Bread plates with butter knives are typically placed above the forks, to the upper left of the main plate.
Casual Dining
For a more casual meal, the setting will be simpler, perhaps only including a dinner fork, knife, and a soup spoon if soup is being served. The soup spoon maintains its position to the right of the dinner knife.
A Quick Reference Guide to Cutlery Placement
| Utensil | Placement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dinner Fork | Left of the plate | Main fork for the entrée. |
| Salad Fork | Left of the dinner fork, outside it | Used for salads, placed for first course. |
| Dinner Knife | Right of the plate, blade facing in | Main knife for the entrée. |
| Soup Spoon | Right of the dinner knife, outside it | Outermost utensil on the right for the first course. |
| Teaspoon/Dessert Spoon | Sometimes to the right of the soup spoon, or horizontally above the plate | Used for coffee, tea, or dessert. |
| Water Glass | Above the knife | Upper right of the plate. |
Practical Tips for Impeccable Table Setting
- Even Spacing: Ensure all cutlery is evenly spaced and aligned. A consistent margin from the table edge adds to the elegance.
- Cleanliness: All cutlery should be spotlessly clean and polished.
- Consistency: Use matching sets of cutlery for a cohesive look.
- Functionality: Always consider the menu. Only set out the cutlery that will actually be needed for the planned courses. If no soup is being served, there's no need for a soup spoon.
By following these simple guidelines, you can set a soup spoon confidently, enhancing your dining presentation for any occasion. For further reading on comprehensive table setting etiquette, resources like Emily Post offer detailed instructions.
