If you have noticed, I have been writing many Indian recipes lately. I have tasted a few Indian dishes, but have never actually been to an Indian restaurant. I have always wanted to try an Indian restaurant in Memphis and San Diego, but since we are in a smaller town now (and thus no Indian restaurants); I will have to wait a while longer.
If you have never been to an Indian restaurant, here are a few etiquette tips:
1. Don’t ask for beef or pork
This would be a hard one for me, but you have to remember that most Indians are either Hindu or Muslim. Hindus consider cows sacred and Muslims consider the pig to be a filthy animal. Chicken and lamb are used quite a bit and you may find many Indian restaurants are vegetarian. If you ask for pork or beef without seeing it on the menu, you may offend the restaurateur.
2. You can use your hands to eat!
If it is not wet or too messy, use your hands. Naan (flat bread) is eaten by breaking the bread and dipping it into chutney or curry. Eating with your fingers can really awaken your sense of touch during an eating experience.
3. Jutha
Jutha is something that came in contact with your mouth, saliva or your plate while eating. Giving someone else your jutha is seen as rude and unclean. This includes direct contact (like taking a bite of something then offering it to someone else) or indirect contact (offering someone something you had already placed on your plate). Avoid doing this unless you are with family or close friends.
4. No alcohol
If you are hoping to have a nice wine with your Indian food, you will be sorely disappointed. Most Indian restaurants do not serve any type of alcohol and those that do will have a limited range from which to choose.
5. Paying
Many Indians believe that if they invite you to dine with them at the restaurant, the bill is their responsibility. Even if you try to pay, they may say no even if they do want you to split the bill. Make sure you double check with any Indian friends you are dining with before you let them pay the entire bill. And if you invited them, be ready to pay the entire bill yourself.