What is the main characteristic of silver service?

The main characteristic of silver service is that food is directly plated from a silver platter to diners' plates. This service style is traditionally associated with formal dining and involves waitstaff serving the food from beautifully arranged platters or trays, allowing for an elegant presentation. The act of serving food directly onto the guests' plates adds a personal touch and showcases the quality of the culinary offerings.

This method emphasizes the hospitality aspect by allowing servers to engage with diners while serving, making it more interactive than simply setting food on a buffet table or serving it in a casual manner. Additionally, it provides a visual appeal and highlights the preparation and presentation of the dishes, which is central to fine dining experiences.

In contrast, food presented under glass domes does not define silver service but rather focuses on freshness and presentation. Serving food from a buffet table is more about self-service than the formal attention characteristic of silver service. Ordering food in advance pertains to a different dining concept, often seen in banquets or pre-set meals, rather than the immediate and attentive style of silver service.