Few foods are as instantly linked to opulence and luxury as caviar. Don't let the reputation of caviar intimidate you; it might make these wonderful and delicate orbs seem frightening to beginners.

The Proper Way to Eat Caviar

You wouldn’t go out to dine in one of the world’s best restaurants and simply order eggs, would you? Of course not, unless they were the world’s most expensive eggs or caviar. This esteemed delicacy is one that you must know how to properly eat. Without these tips, you may settle for a subpar serving and be greatly disappointed.

It Must Be Served Cold

In the world's best restaurants, caviar will come to you presented in a very cold crystal glass. However, that’s not the only thing that is important here. The spoon used should never be made of metal. These delicate fish eggs will impart a metallic taste, and in only the top restaurants will they ensure the proper presentation of caviar. Additionally, the spoon that comes with your caviar will be made from either mother of pearl, bone, or horn. Plastic would also work, though that’s hardly in line with the motto of any fine dining establishment.

There Should Never Be Lemon

Adding lemon to caviar will cook it, much like marinating raw fish in citrus juices creates ceviche. Caviar is meant to be enjoyed raw, and as such, there should be no lemon anywhere near your bowl of caviar.

Know How Caviar Should Look

If you've never had caviar before, you might not know what to expect in terms of how to spot quality in the way it looks. The spheres of the eggs should be large and shiny. In fact, the more so they are, the higher the quality is of the caviar. Additionally, black caviar should have a more clear look to it for the most precious quality.

When it matches these requirements, you can then raise a small spoonful to your nose and take a whiff. It should smell ever so faintly of seaweed, if you smell anything at all. If the caviar smells fishy, that’s a clue that it isn’t fresh or top quality.

How Should Caviar Taste?

Caviar shouldn't be too salty, and each of those tiny little eggs will burst onto your palate in just the right way. Many people revel in the bliss of this moment with just caviar on their spoons. It will often be brought out with accoutrements such as lightly buttered toast points, unsalted crackers, blinis, or a crunchy baguette with crème fraiche. Pairing it with bubbles is ideal, though in certain settings, vodka makes a fine pairing.

You can create this fine dining experience at home, but to treat yourself, the world’s best restaurants often have a spectacular selection of caviar. It’s expensive, but it is certainly an epic choice for marking a special occasion. Once you taste caviar in top quality as it is meant to be tasted, you will truly understand why it is considered the epitome of fine dining.