Different Flavours

Restaurants are more than just a place to eat. They are places were people go to enjoy different styles of food in various atmospheres that are interesting and intriguing. Restaurants are places where friends and family meet to enjoy a meal and share good times. In short, dining establishments are part of the fabric of society. Determining the best restaurants is a subjective exercise, based on the preferences of individual palettes and desires.

Casual dining facilities are popular among many people because they are priced moderately, yet offer good food and ambiance. They usually feature full service sit-down style meals featuring options listed on standard menus. Many casual dining brands are national chains and have separate bars that offer a variety of alcoholic drinks.

Buffet stores provide a casual atmosphere, but differentiate themselves by allowing patrons to serve themselves from a broad variety of foods, allowing them to get as much quantity and variety of their favorite dishes.

Although these types of establishments are priced lower than more formal settings, many consider them as a good alternative to fast food, although priced slightly higher.

Family style restaurants often have limited menu options and provide an atmosphere where children and their parents can have a good meal in an inviting atmosphere. Many of these places have one price for all meal options and offer different options where customers can mix and match dishes to accommodate their preferences.

Fast-food restaurants were once known for the speed at which customers could be served, but now have a variety of foods that give them unprecedented appeal. The hamburgers that once made them famous have been complemented by salads, fish, roast beef, Mexican food, chicken and a variety of other menu items that were previously firmly in the domain of casual dining businesses. Additionally, many of these restaurants have upgraded the ambiance of their table areas, making them more viable alternatives to other more traditional sit-down brands.

Fine dining business are full service businesses that offer the best in service, environment and food quality. People dine at these places for romance, special business gatherings and meetings, and just to enjoy the fact that they can afford the experience. Reservations are often required in advance and these businesses often have requirements for attire. Frequently, these places are locally owned enterprises that have no ties outside of their region.

The best restaurants around are in the eye of the beholder. Whether considering fast food, casual dining, or fine dining, the options are varied and open to the opinions and preferences of the individual customer.