Tabletop Items
What is a dessert cutlery?
This type of flatware is designed specifically for dessert, typically consisting of a fork and a spoon, and is often used to serve items like cake and ice cream.
Who is a hors d'oeuvre chef?
A hors d'oeuvre chef specializes in preparing appetizers, small bites, and cold dishes in a kitchen. They focus on creating visually appealing and flavorful starters like canapés, salads, and pâtés.
What is gazpacho?
This cold soup made from tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers is often served chilled in Spanish cuisine.
What is a ladle?
A long-handled utensil used for stirring and serving soups or stews.
What is a pastry bag?
A specialized device used to pipe frosting or cream onto desserts, allowing for intricate designs and decoration.
What are table linens?
The term for linens used on a table, including runners and napkins, that serve both decorative and functional purposes, often made from materials like cotton or polyester.
What is a differebce between a waiter and runner?
A waiter takes orders, serves food and drinks, and interacts with guests to ensure a good dining experience. A runner primarily delivers food from the kitchen to tables quickly but does not take orders or handle customer requests directly.
What is sake?
A traditional Japanese alcoholic drink made from fermented rice.
What is a placemat?
This item is typically placed under plates to protect the table.
What is a muffin tin or cupcake pan?
This specialized pan is designed with individual cavities for making cupcakes or muffins, often made of silicone or metal.
What are the centerpieces?
These decorative items, often seen in fine dining settings, can include elements like candelabras or intricate floral arrangements, meant to enhance the ambiance and aesthetic appeal of the table.
What is a difference between a bartender and barista?
A bartender prepares and serves alcoholic beverages like cocktails, beer, and wine, usually in a bar or restaurant. A barista specializes in making coffee-based drinks like espresso, cappuccino, and lattes, typically in a café or coffee shop.
What is lobster bisque?
This seafood dish, often served in a rich cream sauce, is made from lobster and sometimes shrimp.
What is a serving platter?
A large dish used for presenting a main course to a group.
What is a chocolate tempering?
The tempering of chocolate is the process of heating and cooling chocolate to stabilize the cocoa butter crystals.
What are the condiments caddies or dispensers?
These tabletop items can vary in design from simple to ornate and are essential for serving condiments; they are often seen in restaurants and include items like ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce dispensers.
How is an expert in oenology called?
A sommelier is a wine expert responsible for selecting, pairing, and serving wines in restaurants or hotels. They advise guests, manage wine inventories, and ensure the best wine experience.
What is gyros?
A popular Greek dish made from lamb, vegetables, and a creamy white sauce, often served with pita bread.
What is a chafing dish?
This tool is used to keep food warm while being served at a buffet.
What is poaching?
This method of cooking involves briefly boiling fruits in syrup to soften them before incorporating them into desserts.
What are the beverage vessels?
These tabletop items can vary in design from simple to ornate and are essential for serving condiments; they are often seen in restaurants and include items like ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce dispensers.
What are the maitre d'hotel's duties?
A maître d'hôtel (maître d') oversees restaurant service, ensuring a smooth dining experience. Their duties include greeting guests, managing reservations, supervising staff, and coordinating between the kitchen and front-of-house.
What is foie gras?
This French delicacy, often served as an appetizer, is made of duck liver and is sometimes prepared as a pâté or mousse.
What is a tureen?
The pot from which soups are served is typically called a soup tureen. A soup tureen is a large, deep dish with a lid used for serving soups and stews. It often has a ladle for serving the contents.
What is a bain-marie?
This technique involves baking a dessert in a water bath to ensure even cooking and prevent over-browning, commonly used for custards. or cheesecakes.