A recent online survey by Hong Kong’s Ufood platform has ignited widespread resonance among netizens, who eagerly voted on the most irritating behaviors witnessed during shared meals. The results reveal a surprising top contender that has nothing to do with food—excessive phone use—redefining how we perceive dining etiquette in the city.
The Survey That Struck a Nerve
Ufood’s web poll invited participants to rank their biggest pet peeves when eating with others. Thousands of netizens responded, sharing personal anecdotes and venting frustrations about what they consider unacceptable at the table. The findings not only highlight cultural norms but also underscore evolving expectations for social interaction in a digitally connected era.
The Top 10 Annoying Dining Behaviors, Countdown to Number One
10. Relentless Leg Shaking
Diners who bounce their legs uncontrollably can vibrate the entire table, causing dishes to tremble and even spill soup. Netizens described this as both distracting and physically unpleasant.
9. Camera-First Syndrome
Before anyone can start eating, someone insists on photographing the meal from every angle—delaying the meal for minutes and allowing hot dishes to turn cold. This habit was widely criticised for prioritising social media over shared dining.
8. Premature Leftover Claiming
At banquets or big gatherings, a diner might declare they will take home leftovers after just a few bites. This statement pressures others to stop eating, creating an awkward and uncomfortable atmosphere.
7. Reaching Across the Table
Known locally as “flying elephants across the river,” this involves stretching across others’ place settings to grab distant dishes. Basic etiquette suggests asking someone to pass the dish instead.
6. Open-Mouthed Chewing
Loud, smacking sounds while chewing topped many netizens’ personal irritants. Participants noted that no matter how polished someone appears, this habit can ruin the entire dining experience, making them want to leave immediately.
5. Talking With a Full Mouth
Excited conversations during meals can lead to food spraying across the table, sometimes landing on shared dishes. This behavior was dubbed “free seasoning” and described as deeply unappetising.
4. Selfish Eating of Premium Portions
Some diners consistently grab the best pieces—such as chicken legs or fish cheeks—without asking if others want them. This selfishness was seen as a sign of greed and disregard for fellow diners.
3. False Agreeability Leading to Complaints
A person might say “I’m easy to please” or “you decide” when choosing a restaurant, only to later criticise every suggestion or dish. This passive-aggressive behavior was labelled highly frustrating.
2. Chopstick Fishing in Shared Dishes
Using personal chopsticks to rummage through communal platters, picking up and then discarding pieces, was compared to “mining for gold.” This unsanitary habit forces everyone else to eat from contaminated food.
1. Phubbing: Ignoring Companions for Screens
The top spot goes to those who spend the entire meal scrolling through WhatsApp, gaming, or browsing social media. Netizens felt this behavior disrespects the purpose of gathering and dismisses the presence of others entirely.
Broader Impact and Next Steps
These findings reflect a broader shift in social awareness around dining. In Hong Kong, where communal eating is central to business, family, and friendships, the survey reminds us that table manners are about respect, not just tradition. For those looking to improve their dining etiquette, consider putting away your phone, sharing dishes thoughtfully, and being mindful of others’ comfort.
For more conversations about food culture, check out Ufood’s related reads on the worst instant noodle flavours and surprisingly good desserts from sushi chains.