What are 'a la carte' menus?

"A la carte" menus refer to a dining format where each menu item is priced separately. This approach allows guests to select individual items according to their preferences rather than being required to choose a complete meal or a set bundle. This flexibility is particularly appealing in catering as it caters to varying tastes and dietary restrictions, enabling guests to curate their meal experience.

In contrast, menus that feature items bundled together or fixed-price options do not allow for the same level of individual choice, as patrons must select from a pre-established set of options or pay a flat fee for a combination of dishes. Additionally, the concept of being limited to lunch availability is not a characteristic of a la carte menus, as they can be offered at any meal service—breakfast, lunch, or dinner—depending on the establishment's approach. Thus, the uniqueness of a la carte menus lies in their emphasis on individual pricing and selection.