Restaurant Etiquette- blowing my nose while eating pho?

I'm sure I'm not the only person who feels self-conscious with this problem while dining on Argyle. And those little paper kleenex napkins don't make things any easier.

So: What's the proper etiquette when the sriracha and jalapenos in a big bowl of pho make your nose run? I never felt rude with such matters while dining on the street in Laos, Thailand, and Cambodia, but now when I eat the same kind of food in Chicago I feel the need to do the "mouth-wipe fakeout" (where you pretend to wipe your mouth as you really dab at your nose).

Apologies in advance if this question is gross, but I need to know.

Thanks!

I say let 'er blow! I always do.

Normally, I'd agree with stevez that just blowing it out is the right thing to do. However, as I think about it, I might vary my response based on the amount of snot that needs to be expelled. For instance, a runny nose just requires a little dab and a short snort; if, on the other hand, I feel serious mucous coming on, I might stand and walk away from the table before letting it rip. Standing up also has the advantage of straightening the wind pipe for more expedient explusion of mucoid material; in addition, in a standing posture you are more able to fill the lungs with the right volume of air required to quickly and efficiently evacuate the rheum.

With all this in mind, during flu season, I'd probably bring my own Kleenex and waterless antibacterial soap when going out for pho.

Hammond

David Hammond wrote:Standing up also has the advantage of straightening the wind pipe for more expedient explusion of mucoid material; in addition, in a standing posture you are more able to fill the lungs with the right volume of air required to quickly and efficiently evacuate the rheum.

Not to mention, you can assure yourself that everyone in the restaurnat will notice your deed.

HI,

For many the art of pho is in broth. By introducing the sriracha and jalapeno's to the broth, you are missing the cook's craftmanship of the broth's subtle and complex flavoring.

Just for the experience, why not follow this primer on eating pho on your next visit.

Regards,