tastingmenu

A tasting menu, also called a degustation, is a chef-curated sequence of small courses designed to showcase ingredients, technique, and the restaurant's philosophy. Unlike an à la carte meal, it usually offers a fixed price for a defined progression of dishes, with optional beverage pairings. The term is sometimes written as tasting-menu or relatedly referred to as degustation, and menus can be seasonal or centered on a specific cuisine or concept.

Typical menus include six to twelve courses served in a deliberate order, starting with lighter flavors and progressing to more complex or richer ones. Courses may include amuse-bouche, small savory plates, and a dessert or palate-cleansing bite. Portions are small to allow multiple courses and to highlight technique and texture, with an emphasis on balance, flavor harmony, and progression.

Dining experience and services: tasting menus emphasize pacing and kitchen transparency, often served in cases where guests can observe the open kitchen or a chef’s table. Meals usually last between 90 minutes and three hours. Many tasting menus are offered at fine-dining restaurants, with vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free accommodations available by advance request. Beverage pairings, such as wine, sake, or non-alcoholic options, are commonly offered and priced separately or included.

Considerations: while tasting menus can be highly expressive and celebratory, they may be costly and time-consuming. Dietary restrictions or allergies can limit feasibility, and some menus allow few substitutions. The format has also influenced casual dining through tasting flights and smaller tasting portions.