Experts settle debate on whether to cut sandwiches into triangles or rectangles

19 May 2023 , 13:50

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Sandwich cutting etiquette has long been a topic of heated debate (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

With the summer months still ahead of us, many of us will be looking forward to sunny family picnics - and this will of course involve plenty of delicious sandwiches.

Whether or not triangles or rectangles are best when it comes to cutting sandwiches is still very much up for debate, however - and is nearly divisive as the ever-ongoing crusts or no crusts argument.

For British Sandwich Week, the Mirror spoke with afternoon tea expert Eileen Donaghey, author of 'The beginner's guide to make afternoon tea at home', and fierce opponent of the crisp butty.

We also caught up with Barry Fairhurst, a former Royal butler who has previously served at the ultimate afternoon tea location - Buckingham Palace.

The shape of an upper-crust sandwich may vary depending on context (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Qualified tea champion Eileen, who regularly hosts luxury event experiences, told the Mirror: "Generally, I think triangle sandwiches are great for lunchtime but for afternoon tea a finger sandwich is best."

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Barry, who has worked in the field of catering for various royal households, stately homes, five-star hotels, and Michelin-star restaurants, also believes context is important when it comes to the shape of your sarnies.

He advised: "There is no right or wrong on that one, that depends on the formality of the event. Finger sandwiches usually for a daintier type of experience, when having guests.

"Then for an everyday sandwich, you might just have triangles for a handheld sandwich for eating on the go, or eating in a casual setting. Depending on the nature of where you're eating it."

Barry has served as a butler in various Royal households and stately homes (Weston Park Foundation)

Barry, who now works at the 1,000-acre hotel and wedding venue Weston Park, also shed some light on how sandwiches are sliced in royal households.

He revealed: "Very much like you see in most afternoon tea settings of a formal nature. Finger dainty sandwiches or penny sandwiches."

When it comes to sandwich fillings, Barry says that, "much the same as everybody else", there is no set sandwich fillings served at the Royal households, and choices would completely depend on those enjoying them, as well as the formality of the occasion.

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Julia Banim