Which of the following is not typically a feature of buffet service?

Buffet service is characterized by specific features that enable a self-service dining experience. The selection of pre-prepared food displayed on long tables allows guests to choose from a variety of dishes at their leisure. This setup promotes a casual dining atmosphere and encourages guests to explore different food options.

A fixed price for self-serving is a hallmark of buffets, allowing diners to pay a single price for access to all available food items. This pricing structure simplifies the dining experience and encourages guests to sample multiple dishes without worrying about individual item costs.

Customers typically setting their own table places can also be part of buffet service, as this approach allows for flexibility and informal dining arrangements. Guests may choose where to sit, fostering a comfortable and relaxed environment.

In contrast, cooking food to order by staff deviates from the typical buffet model. This service style is more reminiscent of traditional dining formats where specific dishes are made according to individual orders, leading to a slower dining experience with less variety and self-service autonomy. Thus, this feature does not align with the fundamental principles of buffet service.