The Key to Enjoying New Foods Abroad is to Follow Anthony Bourdain’s “Grandma Rule”

Anthony Bourdain, the late renowned chef and traveler, left us with a valuable piece of advice known as the “Grandma rule” when it comes to eating abroad. Bourdain’s principle, documented in his book “Medium Raw,” encourages travelers to be open and respectful when trying new foods in foreign lands.

The essence of the rule is simple: If you’re a guest and someone serves you a dish, embrace it with gratitude and eat it, regardless of personal preferences. Bourdain humorously exemplified it with “Grandma’s Thanksgiving turkey,” explaining that even if you don’t particularly like it, you should appreciate the gesture and enjoy the experience.

While this rule applies in many cultures and helps avoid any unintended offense to hosts, it’s essential to be mindful of specific customs in certain countries. For instance, in China, finishing every morsel on your plate may imply that your host didn’t provide enough food, which could be considered impolite. So, understanding cultural norms beforehand is also crucial to ensure a seamless dining experience abroad.

Overall, embracing Anthony Bourdain’s “Grandma rule” with a hint of cultural awareness will make your gastronomic journey even more delightful and enriching. apple.news