When is a finger bowl generally used? How can it be presented to the diner?

Question

When is a finger bowl generally used? How can it be presented to the diner?

Answer 1

ok

Answer 2

any thing that involves eating with fingers especially seafood

the finger bowl should be hot water from kettle with lemon slice served same time

Answer 3

Oh lord its been a long time since I have done fine dinning, I think if I remember correctly , there only used for certain dishes and you bring them out with the meal, if I am not mistaken, I think thats right.

Answer 4

Traditionally, at a fancy restaurant or country club, a finger bowl is presented after the main course (entree).

The finger bowl is a large shallow bowl (like a china soup bowl), which is placed atop a larger plate (like a big saucer). This is set before a diner immediately after his entree plate has been removed. The finger bowl is filled with warm water. Often, a lemon wedge is placed on the underplate.

The finger bowl is usually accompanied by a fresh napkin or cloth, with which the diner may wipe his moistened hands. This cloth is removed by the waiter, along with the finger bowl and underplate.

The idea is for the diner to clean his fingers, particularly after a sticky or messy meal, such as ribs, corn-on-the-cob, fried chicken or shellfish.

Shortly after the finger bowl, a palate-cleansing dish (such as a fruit sorbet) is often introduced. Or it may be followed by the dessert course.

Here's a funny story:  When we were kids, my brother brought a pal along for dinner at a fancy restaurant with our grandparents. The waiter set out the finger bowls, and the young friend picked his up and drank it. How embarrassing!