The Art of Chopsticks: How to Use Them Like a Pro

Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Chinese cuisine or a curious newcomer, there’s something undeniably charming about dining with chopsticks. At I-Chai, Glasgow’s award-winning Chinese restaurant, we believe that mastering chopsticks is more than just a practical skill — it’s an art form that connects you to centuries of tradition and flavour.

So, ready to up your chopstick game? We’re here to guide you through the steps with a sprinkle of fun and a dash of British charm — no boring basics, just expert tips to help you eat like a pro.

Why Chopsticks Matter Beyond the Meal

Chopsticks aren’t merely utensils; they’re cultural ambassadors. Using them properly shows respect for the cuisine and the heritage behind every delicious bite. Plus, it makes your dining experience at I-Chai even more authentic and enjoyable.

Step 1: The Chopstick Grip – Find Your Sweet Spot

Forget fumbling and awkward pinches. Hold the first chopstick like a pencil — resting between your thumb and index finger, supported by your ring finger. The second chopstick sits between your thumb and middle finger, with the tip controlled by your index and middle fingers.

Think of it like a delicate dance, where the bottom chopstick remains steady while the top one moves up and down. Practice opening and closing with precision — no need for a chopstick orchestra, but a smooth rhythm is key.

Step 2: Pick Up Your First Bite – Master the Pinch

Start with larger, easy-to-grasp foods — like chunks of chicken or crispy spring rolls. Gently squeeze the tips of your chopsticks to pinch the food without squeezing too hard or letting it slip away.

Pro tip: don’t stab your food — that’s a dining faux pas! Instead, use a gentle but firm grip. Imagine you’re picking up a tiny gift with care.

Step 3: Tackle Those Trickier Bites

Once you’re comfortable, try picking up slippery or small items like rice or noodles. For rice, try a scooping motion by cupping a few grains between the chopsticks and your thumb. For noodles, lift a small bunch and let gravity help with the rest — no need to scoop up every strand.

Chopstick Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts to Impress Locals

1. Don’t stick chopsticks upright in your rice bowl — it resembles a ritual for the deceased and is considered bad luck.
2. Do rest your chopsticks neatly on the provided rest when taking a break.
3. Don’t point with your chopsticks or wave them around.
4. Do use the opposite end of your chopsticks if sharing dishes to maintain hygiene.

Why I-Chai Is the Perfect Place to Practice Your Chopstick Skills

At I-Chai in Glasgow’s West End, we serve dishes perfectly designed for chopstick dining — from hand-crafted dim sum and crispy salt and chilli chicken to delicate dumplings and wok-fried noodles. Our warm, welcoming atmosphere makes practising a pleasure rather than a challenge.

Plus, with our award-winning flavours and fresh ingredients, every bite you pick up with your chopsticks is a celebration of authentic Chinese cuisine.

Ready to Chopstick Like a Pro?

Why not put your new skills to the test? Visit us at I-Chai in Anniesland or order your favourite dishes online with 10% off your first takeaway order. Whether you’re dining in or feasting at home, we guarantee a taste experience worth mastering the art of chopsticks for.