BON APPETITE
Group Essay
One of the most common questions asked in American every night is “What’s for
dinner?” Most families choose to stay at home and cook dinner; however, many are out
having someone cook for them. Americans are so passionate about food that restaurants
are an important part of life; there is one around every corner, and daily we are
guaranteed to pass quite a few. The options around the city of Houston are endless, such
as fast food, casual dining, and fine dining; the occasion, cost, and time constraints often
influence where we choose to dine.
Fast food restaurants are the best kind of places to pick up something quick to eat.
Anyone can dine at McDonald’s, Whataburger, Wendy’s, or Taco Bell and get served
within minutes. They are great restaurants for people with very busy lives, during the
lunch hour, or for quick dinners.
In most places, a family of four can eat for
approximately twenty-five dollars. Fast food dining can be cost efficient for a single
serving; however, people visiting on a daily basis can literally ‘eat’ through their budget.
Some of these restaurants offer kids’ meals along with amusement areas to keep children
busy which parents eat and talk. Fast food restaurants are a great option when time and
money are limited, or the food in the pantry or refrigerator does not seem appetizing.
A casual dining restaurant is one that serves moderate-priced food in a casual
atmosphere with table service.
It comprises a market segment between fast food
establishments and fine dining restaurants. With a full bar and medium waiters, casual
restaurants usually have a large beer selection and limited wine choices. While dining in
these types of restaurants, people are normally dressed in comfortable attire. Meals range
from $50 to $75 per couple. Many people like eating out because they want to try new
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foods they are either too busy to cook, do not know how to cook, or do not want to cook
at all. Olive Garden, Chili’s and Macaroni Grill are examples of casual dining restaurants
that are not upscale, but are not considered fast food.
Visiting a fine dining restaurant is more than eating a meal; it is an experience all
its own. There is the excitement that builds up before walking through the doors,
anticipating what is to come. Even though the meal can cost as much as $100 a meal, it
is worth every penny. Once inside the restaurant, customers notice the high standard of
customer service. The servers are more attentive than in fast food or casual settings, and
that quality enhances people’s fine dining restaurant experience. Patrons are escorted to
their table while the waiters hold a chair for women to be seated.
The servers explain in detail the menu items and make recommendations on wine
and food pairings. During the meal, they will stop by the table more than once to be sure
everyone is satisfied, and that everything is to the customers’ taste.
In upscale
restaurants, such as The Melting Pot, Vargo’s, and Perry’s Steakhouse, presentations are
crucal, from the food and drinks, to the atmosphere and excellent customer service. The
appearance of the meals in a fine dining restaurant is just as important as the flavor of the
food. The chefs use an empty plate the same way an artist uses a blank canvas. They
express their creativity with a style that reflects the ambiance of the restaurant. To
gourmet chefs, food is prepared to taste delicious, so they carefully piece together a
unique menu using the freshest ingredients. Fine dining restaurants are sophisticated and
chic with superior decorations, elegant music, and soft lighting to provide an intimate,
casual mood. These establishments are perfect when time and money are not an issue,
and when customers expect an exceptional dining experience..
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American lives are hectic, so choosing where to eat can be a chore. Fast food
restaurants are usually the right choice; they boast economic value and quick serving time
when a person is on the go. Casual dining restaurants are great choices for weekends
when people have time to sit down and enjoy a good meal for a moderate price. Lastly,
fine dining establishments are typically reserved for special occasions, such as a wedding
anniversary, a birthday, making a good impression on a first date, or celebrating a job
promotion. Nevertheless, there are unlimited options in the city from the renowned
McDonald’s, favorite Chili’s, or the pricey yet tasty Fogo de Chao.
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