Fine dining is the term used for fine cuisine. Fine dining restaurants are generally full-service establishments with specific, pre-planned meal courses designated for different tastes and budgets. Dining in fine dining restaurants often involves higher-end materials, with establishments often having some rules of etiquette that guests are expected to follow, especially with regard to a dress code of some kind. Fine dining is typically reserved for the well-off, as opposed to the more casual food-drinking client. In many cases, it has been considered a special treat for royalty or members of the highest social levels.
Fine dining restaurants have evolved into much more than just a meal for two. They have become destinations where people go to experience new dishes and fine dining techniques on a regular basis. With the ability to dine at world-class establishments comes an increased expectation of quality and sophistication for the food and service that are provided. Many fine dining restaurants also offer on-site wine cellars and private cellar for their wines, usually with a small percentage of the wine’s value kept as a contribution toward the price of the meal. A person who dines at a fine dining restaurant on occasion will also be expected to create a particular memory of that experience.
As an example of the types of experiences that many fine dining restaurants offer patrons on a regular basis, one can think of the experience of a quick meal at a popular local chain of restaurants. While the concept of the “quick meal” may seem strange to some people, it is actually a meal that can be completed within thirty minutes or less. Often, the food is the highlight of the fine dining restaurant and is prepared by professional staff using quality ingredients that are fresh. Other fine dining restaurants feature appetizers and a selection of lighter meals as well.
Another type of fine dining restaurant that most people have probably never tried is an all-you-can-eat buffet. While many fine dining restaurants will offer buffets on occasion to guests as a thank you for having a special meal with them, some will also feature this service as an everyday part of the fine dining establishment’s business model. Buffets are offered in a variety of price ranges and sizes and there are also buffets that feature a casual three-course meal for lunch and dinner. The prices of these buffets will vary depending on the location of the fine dining restaurant and the popularity of the buffet.
Casual dining is another type of dining that is common practice at fine dining restaurants. These casual restaurants will typically feature take-out food that can be picked up on the go. The service at these restaurants will usually be more attentive and helpful than that provided by a formal dining establishment. Many casual restaurants also offer a small number of signature dishes that are priced according to the level of service that is provided. Some casual restaurants will even provide live music as an option for those who prefer to have casual entertainment while they eat their meal.
Professional chefs can sometimes come into play at fine dining restaurants. It has become more common for celebrity chefs to make appearances at local fine dining restaurants as well as high profile private restaurants. For example, celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse will be hosting a monthly gourmet brunch at his own Bistro Le Burger in Manhattan. In between guest appearances, Emeril will also be creating a short television series for select cable television viewers. While most chefs who are considered “the best” will command high prices, it is still possible to find a lower cost arrangement with a less famous chef.
While fine dining restaurants have come a long way in terms of sophistication over the years, casual dining remains a market that continues to grow in size. This is due to the fact that more people are willing to spend less money for a comfortable environment and the relaxed atmosphere that casual restaurants provide. In the past, full-service restaurants that offered fancier menus were able to offer higher prices to diners because of the perceived value that such a restaurant had as opposed to more affordable restaurants that offered a more casual atmosphere. However, with more people willing to cut down on their expenses in order to have a relaxing experience, casual dining restaurants have been able to provide the same quality food at a more reasonable price.
Some fine dining restaurants will focus on specific genres of cuisine, while others will cater to a broader range of patrons. Some of the more popular casual dining establishments include Chinese, Japanese, and Thai restaurants. These establishments tend to have a slightly different menu than many fine dining establishments that focus on a more traditional European or American cuisine. However, there are still a number of fine dining establishments that offer foods from all around the world. In addition to a large number of Asian dining establishments, there are also a large number of Hispanic and American-operated casual dining establishments. With so many choices available, it should be relatively easy to find the perfect place for your next meal.