Question

Out of the following, identify the one which means 'according to the board'.

• A. Fixed
• B. Table d'hôte
• C. A la carte
• D. Cyclic
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Hint:

To remember:
• Table d'hôte = Host's table (Fixed multi-course meal, single price).
• A la carte = By the card (Order whatever you like, pay per item).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Etymology of Culinary Terms:
Many fundamental terms used in professional food and beverage operations originate from French culinary traditions.

Step 2: Defining the Options:

• Table d'hôte: This is a French phrase that literally translates to “table of the host”. In historical European inns, travelers would sit at a single large table hosted by the innkeeper (the “board” or host) and eat whatever set meal the host prepared. Over time, it came to mean a menu offering a complete multi-course meal (starter, main, dessert) with limited choices at a single fixed, all-inclusive price. In professional hospitality glossary, it translates to “according to the board/host”.
• A la carte: Translates literally to “according to the card/menu”. In this system, each food item is ordered separately and priced individually.
• Fixed Menu: A menu that does not change; however, it does not carry the direct etymological translation of “according to the board”.
• Cyclic Menu: A menu designed to repeat on a specific chronological cycle.

Step 3: Conclusion:
Table d'hôte is the specific term that means 'according to the board'.