We entertain at dinner fairly often (although less so in recent months, between the baby and the move) and it struck me this weekend how things have changed with regards to dietary restrictions. We made a delightful roasted herb chicken with sweet potatoes and kale for my parents who were visiting. My mother has been dealing with diverticulitis and thus cannot eat any seeds or nuts. I should have known this, but it didn't occur to me. It also never occurred to my mother to remind me. The first time it came up is when I was adding a pornographic amount of minced garlic to the pan for the kale.
Most of our friends here in town make sure that any host is aware of dietary restrictions. Most everyone here has at least a minor restriction - from allergies to Atkins and everything in between. It's a matter of pride for me to be able to construct menus that are interesting and tasty while still respecting people's dietary needs and preferences. And most people my age here tend to have this same attitude.
After thinking about this for a bit, it occurred to me that my mother would think it was rude to impose upon a host with special dietary requests, while my friends would think it was rude to show up without having shared them. It makes me wonder when this shift in attitude occurred. And what is the appropriate etiquette? Personally, I think it is the responsibility of a gracious host to inquire after any restrictions that might be an issue, but I certainly don't consider it rude for someone to inform me of an issue if I neglect to inquire.
Posted by brent at 20:46You know, I thought about this, and I realized that part of the problem is that some people are embarrassed if people ask them if they have dietary restrictions, particularly in the past, when there might have been a stigma attached to having a problem. These days, people are doing all sorts of strange diets for various reasons, and sharing that they have a dietary restriction is sometimes less a matter of physical difficulties than it is a social choice. Maybe that makes a difference? Dunno, just speculation. :)
Posted by: Brook at May 8, 2004 09:21 PM