boardinghouse reach

plural boardinghouse reaches

1. The ability to reach a long distance across a table to get desired food.

   He developed his boardinghouse reach in the oil fields.

   1 more example

   There is nothing contrived about this restaurant — it is strictly the basics — good food, good service, and good prices. All you need is a good boardinghouse reach and if you don't have one, then ask for the food to be passed.

   2003, Judy Barnes, Jolane Edwards, Carolyn Lee Goodloe, Coasting: An Expanded Guide to the Northern Gulf Coast, page 38

2. The act of reaching across a table to get desired food, often considered poor etiquette because it invades others' personal space.

   Avoid the boardinghouse reach. Reach for something only within the invisible boundary that separates your personal space from the other diners'.

   2005, Peggy Post, Collins Gem: Emily Post's favorite party & dining tips, page 102