Former royal butler insists on using cutlery for burgers
- Grant Harrold, former royal butler, claims that using a knife and fork to eat hamburgers is proper etiquette.
- California etiquette expert Rosalinda Randall supports using cutlery at formal dining events while acknowledging casual occasions allow hands.
- The dining etiquette regarding hamburgers is influenced by context, prompting discussions about refinement versus casual eating practices.
In a recent statement, Grant Harrold, who served as a butler for King Charles III between 2004 and 2011, asserted that eating a hamburger should exclusively be done with a knife and fork. This perspective was shared in an interview with The Telegraph, emphasizing that this practice was a norm among members of the monarchy during his tenure at both Buckingham Palace and Highgrove House. Harrold explained that utilizing cutlery not only elevates the dining experience but is also regarded as proper etiquette for upscale dining. While he acknowledged that most people typically use their hands to eat burgers, he highlighted that using cutlery reflects refinement in culinary practices. Additionally, he mentioned that it was customary for high-end clientele worldwide to adhere to this etiquette, particularly during formal events. California-based etiquette expert Rosalinda Randall contributed to the discussion by acknowledging that while using a knife and fork is suitable for formal occasions, casual settings still allow for hamburgers to be consumed with hands. Randall noted that during distinguished events, such as royal or diplomatic gatherings, cutlery is preferred when dining on hamburgers, especially if they are served as part of a multi-course meal. However, she pointed out the challenges posed by double-stacked burgers, which can become messy when cut. Randall also offered practical advice on the etiquette of eating burgers in various environments, indicating that using cutlery may be appropriate in situations such as job interviews or dates where maintaining cleanliness is desired. Moreover, Randall explained that cutting small bites can facilitate conversation during meals, reducing the likelihood of sticky fingers or leaving fingerprints on dining ware. She advised that guests at formal dinners should follow the lead of their hosts concerning whether to use utensils or not, reinforcing the importance of adhering to the dining etiquette of the occasion. While the butler's advice may seem unconventional to some, it emphasizes a commitment to refinement and decorum that can be appreciated in specific contexts, juxtaposed with the cultural understandings of casual dining. In conclusion, the discussion on whether to eat hamburgers with a knife and fork versus hands reveals ongoing debates about etiquette, formality, and personal preferences in dining practices. The differing opinions from Harrold and Randall highlight the balance between tradition and modern dining customs, underscoring how context plays a crucial role in shaping acceptable behavior in various eating scenarios.