Dining Etiquette
Dining in Nauru varies a bit depending on the setting and your company. Generally, the dining in Nauru is less formal than it is in many countries as rules are more relaxed. Despite this, there are some formal restaurants in the country and if dining in a business setting rules are more important.
The formalities and most important aspects of dining in Nauru are related to behavior more than actual eating. For example, bringing food to a dinner, even a small side dish or dessert can be a great offense to the host by indicating they will not prepare enough food for everyone. Also let your host seat you as guests are also often asked to sit in the middle of the table so they may converse with everyone more easily.
Once seated you may notice silverware (cutlery) or it may be absent. Many of the people eat with their hands and if this is the case do the same. Once the food arrives be sure to try every dish offered as this is a sign of appreciation and respect. Also try to eat at the same pace as everyone else so everyone begins and finishes eating at about the same time. Most of the people will leave some food behind then will take their excess food home for a latter meal. You are welcome to do the same, but as a guest your host may insist you finish all your food.
If dining in a restaurant many of the above rules also apply, but there will most definitely be eating utensils and the setting will be more formal (yet still less formal than most of Europe, Australia, or North America). The host of a meal is expected to pay for everyone present; if this is you tip at your discretion. Tipping is not expected in Nauru, but is appreciated.
Drinks
Nauru boasts all the world's favorites when it comes to beverages including juices, soft drinks, tea, and coffee. However for a more authentic taste of the South Pacific try kava. This drink is made from the kava plant's roots, which are ground to release liquid, then water is added and the juice is drunk. This drink gives a very relaxing effect, yet is not considered a drug in the countries of the South Pacific.
The most popular alcoholic beverage in Nauru is overwhelmingly beer, although there are no local breweries so all beer is imported. Wine and hard liquors are also available in many hotels and nice restaurants, but are rarely consumed by the locals; the selection is quite limited when it is available.
The tap water is not safe to drink in Nauru. The most cautious course of action is to entirely avoid the tap water and items that could be made from or with the water, such as ice, fruits, and salads.