Menu

What is a Menu?

A menu is more than just a list of food options; it’s the gateway to a dining experience, much like how a map guides you through an unfamiliar city. Menus can be à la carte or table d’hôte, and they come in all shapes and sizes—from printed pages to digital displays on tablets.

Types of Menus

Did you know that menus have evolved over time? From the earliest European menus dating back to 1751, to the modern-day digital menu boards, each type serves a unique purpose. Some restaurants even use ‘blind menus’ for business meals where hosts don’t want diners to see prices, while others offer separate women’s menus without price listings.

Menu Design and Printing

In the mid-20th century, menu specialists designed and printed these essential documents. With the advent of digital printing in the late 1990s, restaurants could afford to print full-color menus with ease. Before that, niche printing companies used offset presses for full-color prints, but this was impractical for short press runs due to high costs.

Menu Categories and Puffery

Menus typically include categories such as appetizers, sides, entrées, desserts, and beverages. They may also provide information about the chef’s philosophy, policies, and health warnings. But have you ever wondered why some dishes are described using French terms? This is a form of puffery used to make dishes sound more sophisticated and exciting.

Menu Protection

To protect menus from spills and wear, they may be protected by vinyl page protectors, lamination, or menu covers. Some restaurants even use large format menu boards with features like metal housing, translucent surfaces, and removable numbers for prices. These boards can display the entire menu in a visually appealing way.

Menu Boards and Digital Displays

Large format menu boards are commonly used by fast-food restaurants and cafeteria-style establishments. These boards may be printed or painted on large flat surfaces, or they might include features like metal housing, translucent surfaces, and removable numbers for prices.

Digital Menus and Online Ordering

With the rise of digital technology, menus can now be displayed on handheld tablets for customers to browse. Some restaurants even provide menus outside their establishments, including fast-food chains and high-end eateries with lit-up display cases. Online menus have become more accessible since the 1990s, and some websites now include features such as ordering systems.

The Secret Menu Phenomenon

Have you ever heard of a ‘secret menu’? This phenomenon refers to unofficial items available at fast food chains or high-end restaurants. These items are prepared by staff but not listed on the main menu, often named after regular clientele for convenience or prestige.

The Evolution and Future of Menus

From traditional printed menus to digital displays and online ordering systems, menus have come a long way. They serve as more than just a list of food options; they are an integral part of the dining experience, guiding customers through the menu offerings with their unique design and content.

As technology continues to advance, menus will likely become even more interactive and personalized. The future of menus is exciting, and it’s clear that they will continue to evolve to meet the changing needs and preferences of diners.