In an a la carte service, how is food typically prepared?

In an a la carte service, food is typically cooked to order. This means that each dish is prepared only after a customer has placed their order, ensuring that the meal is fresh and tailored to the diner's preferences. This style of service allows for a high level of customization, as guests can request modifications to their dishes without the limitations imposed by pre-prepared meals.

Cooking to order is essential in creating a dining experience that emphasizes quality and individual attention, which is often a hallmark of a la carte menus. When food is prepared this way, it can be served at its optimal temperature and flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The other methods of food preparation mentioned do not align with the principles of a la carte service. Pre-cooked meals lack the freshness that comes with cooking to order, and prepared large batches do not offer the customization that guests often seek. Similarly, using frozen ingredients might be more typical in other types of food service but does not represent the standard for the a la carte dining format.