India, Feb. 21 -- Sometimes the best way to hang out with friends is at home. You have a reasonable expectation of privacy, with no nosy waitstaff eavesdropping on conversations. No spending hours poring over the menu and then getting served your main courses 10 minutes apart. Also, most importantly, it costs a fraction of the price of eating out. But there are some rules of entertaining at home that you should adhere to if you want your guests to have a great time.

First off, welcome drinks. Please don't put people on the spot by asking them "What would you like to drink?" the moment they walk through the door. They haven't had a chance to check out the bar or the drinks cupboard and have no idea what you have to offer. Instead, offer t...