How Wealthy People’s Dinner Manners Are Changing
- Miguel Virgen, PhD Student in Business
- Mar 26
- 4 min read
March (Doctors In Business Journal) - As society evolves, so do the customs and traditions of the elite. In 2025, the dinner etiquette of the wealthy is undergoing a transformation, influenced by shifting social values, advancements in technology, and an increasing emphasis on sustainability. No longer are formal multi-course meals and rigid table settings the only markers of wealth. Instead, modern affluence is being expressed through mindfulness, discretion, and an appreciation for experiences over extravagance. This article explores the emerging trends in how the rich are redefining their dining etiquette.
The Shift from Formality to Casual Elegance
Once defined by strict adherence to traditional etiquette, high-society dining is now embracing a more relaxed approach. While fine dining remains popular, there is a growing preference for intimate, experience-driven meals that prioritize comfort and conversation over ostentation. Luxury dinner parties are now more about fostering genuine connections rather than showcasing wealth through excessive formality. Hosts favor high-quality but understated table settings, incorporating personal touches such as handcrafted ceramics and artisanal tableware rather than excessive silverware arrangements. Dress codes have also evolved, with guests opting for refined yet casual attire rather than rigid black-tie ensembles.
A Focus on Ethical and Sustainable Dining
Conscious consumption is becoming an integral part of high-end dining. Today’s elite are prioritizing sustainability by choosing ethically sourced ingredients, supporting local farmers, and reducing food waste. Farm-to-table dining has become the gold standard, with wealthy hosts opting for seasonal and organic menus that emphasize quality over quantity. Additionally, plant-based fine dining is growing in popularity, with many high-net-worth individuals embracing vegetarian and vegan cuisine as a status symbol. Exclusive restaurants now boast innovative plant-based menus, and private chefs are experimenting with sustainable alternatives to traditional luxury ingredients like caviar and foie gras.
The Rise of Private and Experiential Dining
In an era where privacy is valued more than ever, wealthy individuals are shifting away from grand public displays of wealth in restaurants and opting for curated private dining experiences. Instead of booking the best table at a Michelin-starred restaurant, the ultra-wealthy are bringing the fine dining experience into their own homes. Private chefs are increasingly in demand, offering bespoke menus tailored to individual preferences. Some elite diners are taking things a step further by hosting meals in unconventional locations—private islands, art galleries, or even aboard luxury yachts—transforming dinner into an immersive event rather than a routine meal.
Technology’s Role in Modern Fine Dining
Technology is playing a growing role in shaping how the wealthy dine. From AI-powered kitchen assistants to smart wine cellars, affluent hosts are incorporating tech innovations to enhance their dining experiences. Automated sommelier services help select the perfect wine pairings, while digital dining tables equipped with interactive displays provide guests with personalized menus and information about each dish’s origin. High-end restaurants are also leveraging virtual reality (VR) experiences to create immersive culinary journeys, allowing guests to ‘travel’ through different cultures and cuisines without leaving their seats.
The Decline of Over-the-Top Displays of Wealth
Conspicuous consumption is becoming less fashionable among the elite. Flashy displays of excessive wealth, such as lavish feasts with rare ingredients flown in from across the world, are being replaced by more discreet and thoughtful expressions of luxury. Rather than flaunting expensive ingredients for the sake of status, today’s wealthy diners are more likely to highlight their knowledge of food, appreciation of culinary artistry, and commitment to ethical eating. Guests at high-society gatherings are now more impressed by a perfectly aged, locally sourced cheese selection than an imported, extravagant delicacy.
Emphasizing Cultural Appreciation and Global Influences
The modern wealthy diner values cultural awareness and diversity in their culinary experiences. Rather than sticking to traditional French fine dining, many are embracing global flavors, regional specialties, and fusion cuisines. It’s not just about eating exotic foods—it’s about engaging with the culture behind them. Hosts are hiring chefs who specialize in authentic global cuisine and incorporating storytelling into their meals, where each dish is presented with historical and cultural context. This shift reflects a growing desire among the elite to be seen as cultured and well-traveled rather than simply rich.
The Art of Digital Etiquette at the Dinner Table
As technology becomes increasingly intertwined with everyday life, a new set of etiquette rules is emerging regarding digital devices at the dinner table. While the outright ban on phones at formal gatherings still exists, there is now a more nuanced approach to digital interactions during meals.
At high-end dining events, guests are expected to strike a balance between presence and discretion. It’s acceptable to snap a quick photo of an artfully plated dish, but prolonged social media engagement is frowned upon. Moreover, some ultra-wealthy hosts are implementing ‘tech-free’ dinners to encourage deeper conversations and social connections without digital distractions.
Conclusion: Dining Etiquette
The dining customs of the wealthy are evolving in ways that reflect broader societal shifts. The emphasis is no longer solely on extravagance but on sustainability, cultural appreciation, and meaningful experiences. With the rise of private dining, ethical food choices, and digital etiquette, the modern elite are redefining what it means to dine in style. As these trends continue to shape the culinary landscape, one thing is clear—true luxury in dining is no longer just about what is on the plate, but about the thoughtfulness and experience that accompany the meal.
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