LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 01: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Camilla, Queen Consort, King Charles III, Prince William, Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales pose for a photo ahead of their Majesties the King and the Queen Consort’s reception for Heads of State and Official Overseas Guests at Buckingham Palace on September 18, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
Food - Drink
Follow This Royal Etiquette Rule When Serving Breakfast Pastries
BY DEBORAH MARTIN
British royals and their guests have many intricate dining rules to follow: for instance, no one starts eating before the queen or continues eating when she is done. Royal breakfast traditions aren't as well-known as their infamously strict dinner etiquette, but rules for morning manners do exist, and even govern how pastries are served.
British etiquette expert Grant Harrold, former butler to King Charles, has revealed a pastry-related rule to follow if you ever end up dining with royalty (or want to throw an authentic royal-themed brunch). When offering a plate of baked goods, the host always lets the guests take theirs first, and no one should take more than one pastry.
After choosing your pastry and pouring out tea, you should also remember to hold your teacup the correct way, with your index finger and thumb against the top of the handle and your middle finger keeping the bottom steady. Also, pour tea into the cup first and milk second, and when stirring, never let your spoon clatter against the cup.