bufféform

Bufféform is a 19th-century dining system that originated in Sweden. It was designed to serve multiple small dishes called "buffé" in a room where guests could serve themselves.

The buffet system was meant to replace the traditional French service, where a headwaiter would gather orders and dishes would be served in a particular order. The bufféform allowed guests to move freely around a table decorated with a series of small dishes, each one representing a different course. This method allowed for greater flexibility and variety for guests.

In a bufféform service, the table was typically decorated with a centerpiece or a "buffé console," a rack that held the various dishes. Each guest used their own table knife, and guests were expected to use their own plates and tableware. The method also often included a dress code and expectations for etiquette, such as not directly taking food from the console, but instead using individual serving utensils.

Bufféform gained popularity in the late 19th century, particularly in the United States and Europe. Although it has largely fallen out of use in modern dining, it is still studied by historians of art and fashion as an example of one of the many contributers to the development of modern dining culture. Despite not retaining its original popularity, bufféform's impact on the layout, decor, and functional components of the dining area still holds relevance in modern restaurants and upscale casual dining settings.