Eating Etiquettes in Indonesia: Do’s and Don’ts of Dining

Eating food is one of the most fundamental human activities. It is a necessary part of survival. But eating is also a social activity; as such, specific etiquette rules should be followed to ensure everyone enjoys their meal.

In Indonesia, a few specific things to remember when sitting down to eat with others. But fret not! This article will discuss the dos and don'ts of eating while visiting Indonesia.

The Do's of Dining in Indonesia 

If you're planning a trip to Indonesia, one of the things you'll want to experience is the country's cuisine. Here are some tips on what to expect and how to enjoy dining in Indonesia:

1. Try the National Dish, Nasi Goreng

This fried rice dish is usually served with chicken or shrimp and is a popular breakfast food. It is a popular dish from Indonesia that is made with rice, vegetables, and meat. The most common meats in nasi goreng are chicken, beef, or shrimp.

2. Don't Be Afraid to Try New Things 

Many Indonesian dishes are cooked with spices and herbs that may be unfamiliar to you, but they're all part of the fun of experiencing new cultures.

So, if you see something on a menu you've never heard of or want to ask about the contents of a dish, go ahead and ask. The vendors will be more than happy to explain what goes into making their food. 

3. Keep an Open Mind About Food Practices 

Indonesia is home to a whopping 300 ethnicities, each of which has distinct customs and beliefs. Although much of the country is exposed to Western values and traditions, some ethnic groups prefer to stick with their cultural norms. 

So, don't be alarmed or offended if you see locals eating with their hands or sitting close together; this is how they're used to enjoying a meal.

The Don'ts of Dining in Indonesia

When dining in Indonesia, it is essential to be aware of the local customs and etiquette. Here are a few things to avoid doing while dining in Indonesia:

1. Don't Use Your Left Hand When Eating or Handling Food

In Indonesia, eating and handling food with your right hand is considered polite. This is because the left hand is considered 'unclean' as it is used for cleaning yourself after going to the toilet. If you are left-handed, it is best to use your right hand when eating or handling food. This is to avoid offending anyone.

2. Don't Blow Your Nose at the Table

When dining in Indonesia, blowing your nose at the table is impolite. This is considered rude and off-putting to others. If you must blow your nose, do so discreetly and away from the table.

3. Don't Leave Food on Your Plate

When dining in Indonesia, it is considered rude to leave food on your plate. If you do not finish your meal, it is seen as a sign that you did not enjoy the food or that you are not grateful for what you were given. This can be not very kind to your host. It is better to take smaller portions to finish everything on your plate.

Conclusion

Good eating etiquettes are important in Indonesia as they help to create a good impression and show respect. By following these simple etiquette tips, you can make sure that you enjoy your meals while respecting the culture and customs of Indonesia.

If you are looking forward to travelling abroad, Go Discover Abroad is here to help you. We provide small group tours and gap year trips for you to explore life-changing tour itineraries in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and other unique countries. Contact us for more details!