Once the meals begins, try everything offered and do finish all the food you take, although many of the communal plates will have food remaining at the end of the meal so don't take the last of any communal dish. When you eat use the continental style (knife in the right hand, fork in the left), keep your hands in sight by resting your wrists on the table, and indicate you are finished by placing your fork and knife together on your plate. Generally, the guest of honor will thank the host or hostess once everyone is finished eating.
At a restaurant, the inviter pays for everyone and the server can be summoned by making eye contact (but don't wave as this is rude). If you are the guest, be sure to write or call the following day to thank your host for his or her generosity.
In Sweden, most bills will include a service charge of about 10%. Generally you want to round up the bill so you leave an addition tip of about 5% and up to 10% for exceptional service.
Drinks
Sweden, like the rest of Scandinavia begins their days with coffee and this is drunk in incredibly high quantities in Sweden. Other non-alcoholic drinks are also popular, including tea, soft drinks, juices, and cider.
Sweden's alcohol scene begins with vodka, as they are a large producer of the liquor and it is common in the country, but shrinking in popularity. Aquavit or schnapps is another good traditional drink as is brannvin, a liquor distilled from grain or potatoes, of which vodka is included, although numerous varieties and qualities exist. Again, these drinks are shrinking in popularity as beer, and to a lesser extent, wine are gaining a growing market share.
Generally speaking, the tap water is safe to drink in Sweden, but check with locals for any particular regional differences. Also, many people may have troubles adjusting to the local tap water, as it will most certainly be different from what your system is used to.