eatery

An eatery is a place where meals are prepared for immediate consumption, typically serving food to customers either at a counter or at tables. The term is a generic, informal label used in English to refer to any establishment that serves prepared foods for on-site dining or takeout, including restaurants, cafes, diners, fast-food outlets, and food stalls.

An eatery may describe a range of formats without implying a single style of cuisine. Formats include full-service restaurants, casual dining rooms, quick-service counters, food courts, cafes, food trucks, and pop-up or temporary venues. Some prioritize speed and convenience, while others emphasize atmosphere, specialty menus, or locally sourced ingredients.

Historically, places where meals were sold and consumed formed part of inns, taverns, markets, and street stalls. The modern use of 'eatery' became common in English to refer to informal dining venues. Today, eateries populate cities and towns worldwide, reflecting local tastes and the growth of both independent operators and chains.

Operating an eatery requires compliance with food safety, sanitation, and licensing requirements. Business models vary from dine-in to takeaway and delivery. Market trends include quick-service expansion, diverse cuisines, sustainability practices, and digital ordering through apps and platforms that broaden access to meals outside traditional restaurants.