An iftar meal is eaten in a set order: first dates and water, then soup, then the main course. If the table is set in the same order, everything each person needs is within reach when the call to prayer sounds.
Iftar table layout step by step
- Table runner: laid lengthwise along the centre. Shared dishes such as pide, salad, olives, cheese and dessert go on the runner.
- Placemats: one opposite each chair, allowing about 60 cm per person.
- Soup bowl: in the centre of the placemat, on the dinner plate. When the soup is finished, the bowl is removed and the plate stays.
- Dates and water: a small plate of dates in front of each person; the water glass at the top right of the plate, on a coaster.
- Cutlery: soup spoon on the far right, knife to its left; fork to the left of the plate.
We explain where each piece goes in our table setting article.
Decorating the iftar table
- Colour: navy and gold, burgundy and cream, or green and white are common palettes for iftar.
- Pattern: lantern, tile, ethnic and geometric patterns carry the Ramadan mood. With patterned linen, keep the plates plain.
- Centrepiece: a lantern or a low candle arrangement. It should not block the view of the person opposite; candles should not stand directly on fabric but on a glass or metal plate.
A large iftar dinner
At an iftar dinner one table is often not enough. When two tables are placed end to end with runners in the same pattern on both, the table looks like one piece. Preparing shared dishes separately for each half (two pide, two salads) means less reaching. For choosing a runner by table length, see how long a table runner should be.
What do you need for how many people?
- Iftar for 4: 1 runner, 4 placemats, 4 coasters.
- Iftar for 6: 1 runner, 6 placemats, 6 coasters.
- Iftar for 8: 1-2 runners, 8 placemats, 8 coasters.
The suhoor table
Suhoor is a shorter, simpler meal. Placemats and coasters are enough, with fewer dishes in the middle. Wipe-clean pieces are quick to clean in the rush of the night.