What is a degustation menu?

A degustation menu is indeed characterized as a sampling menu that typically includes multiple courses, often ranging up to seven or more, designed to provide a diverse culinary experience. This type of menu is crafted to showcase the chef's creativity and skill, offering small portions of various dishes in a single meal. It allows guests to taste a variety of flavors, techniques, and presentations. The focus is usually on offering a curated selection, where the choices may be limited or predetermined, aligning with the chef's vision.

This contrasts with other menu types. For instance, a traditional menu that features regional dishes emphasizes specific local cuisine rather than a variety of smaller bites. A menu focusing on vegan and vegetarian meals is specialized around dietary preferences and doesn't necessarily offer the broad sampling approach of a degustation. Meanwhile, a budget menu with economical options targets affordability rather than a sophisticated dining experience characterized by tasting multiple intricate dishes.