The main difference between China and Western countries on the dinner table is chopsticks instead of a knife and fork, but that's just a small difference. Besides, in decent(像样的) restaurants, you can always ask for a knife and fork, if you find the chopsticks not helpful enough. The real difference is that in the West, you have your own plate of food, while in China the dishes are placed on the table and everyone shares. If you are being treated to a formal(正式的) dinner and particularly if the host thinks you're in the country for the first time, he will do his best to give you a taste of many different types of dishes. The meal usually begins with a set of at least four cold dishes, followed by the main courses of hot meat and vegetable dishes. Soup will then be served (unless it is a Guangdong-style restaurant), followed by rice, noodles or dumplings. Perhaps one of the things that surprise a Western visitor most is that some of the Chinese hosts like to put food onto their guests' plates. In formal dinners, there are always "public" chopsticks and spoons for this purpose, but some hosts may use their own chopsticks. This is a sign of real friendship and politeness. It is always polite to eat the food. If you do not eat it, just leave the food on the plate. People in China tend to over-order food, for they will find it embarrassing(令人尴尬的) if all the food is consumed(吃光). When you have had enough, just say so, or you will always overeat!
