Since moving to India in 2021, American influencer Kristen Fischer has had her fair share of cultural surprises. But it’s India’s unique approach to dinner parties that has left her scratching her head, and she’s not afraid to admit it. In a viral Instagram video, Kristen opened up about her biggest cultural adjustment: the Indian tradition of prioritizing socializing over immediate dining, a concept that initially baffled her.
“Every time I’m sitting there hungry, I’m wondering when the food is going to be served,” she confessed, explaining her struggle with the delay in meals at Indian dinner gatherings. Accustomed to the punctual, meal-first American dinner parties, Kristen found the laid-back Indian approach a challenging but fascinating experience.

From prompt dining to late-night feasts
Kristen’s tale of cultural confusion continues with her revelation that, in America, dinner parties are about eating first and socializing after. In India, however, the socializing part takes precedence—often well into the night. “In America, the conversation happens after the meal, but in India, it’s before. Imagine my surprise when guests don’t show up on time and don’t want to eat right away,” Kristen described. She recounted an eye-opening experience at a friend’s dinner party where, despite showing up on time, the meal wasn’t served until well past 11 p.m.
“They were asking why I was leaving so early, and I was thinking it’s late, and I need to go to bed. I’ve even come home from such gatherings and made a sandwich before sleeping,” Kristen admitted with a laugh. Living in Delhi with her family, she’s adapted to many aspects of Indian life, but the dinner party culture still leaves her perplexed.
“I honestly still don’t get it. Wouldn’t the food get cold? Or I’d have to be in the kitchen making it the whole time instead of enjoying my guests,” she mused, revealing a genuine clash of expectations between her American background and her Indian experiences.
Social media reacts: A mix of humor and understanding
Kristen’s candid take struck a chord with her followers, sparking a flood of comments that ranged from supportive to humorous. “Welcome to India! It’s all about the social vibes first,” one user wrote, while another added, “The food is the grand finale, not the opening act.” Many took to the comments section to defend the tradition, explaining that food is often seen as a way to bond rather than just a necessity to satiate hunger.
“Food is just the cherry on top,” one comment read, echoing the sentiment of those who value the social aspect of a meal over the food itself. Some users empathized with Kristen, sharing their own struggles with late-night dinners. “I feel you. I’ve been in India for years and still sneak snacks before dinner parties,” admitted one follower.
Others took a more lighthearted approach, offering advice for future dinner parties: “Pro tip: Eat before you go!”