About Traditional Buffet Restaurants

Almost everyone has visited a restaurant that offers customers a traditional-style buffet. With these, you are able to choose from a wide variety of foods. This allows customers to eat whatever they want at one set price. Modern day buffets really didn't come into style until 1946.

History

The history of a buffet began in the year 1600 in France. Courting was very popular, and gentlemen would show up at the house of the woman they wanted to see. These visits were generally unexpected. To display good manners, the staff of the home that was being visited would frantically try to throw something together to offer the caller. These items were leftovers. The staff would set it up on a sideboard, and the guest could select what they wanted.

The history of the modern day restaurant buffet begins here in the United States. Herb Macdonald is credited with being the originator in 1946. Late one night after working late, he asked the chef to prepare him a quick meal. It consisted of cold cuts, cheese, and other items the cook had on hand. He then ate it directly at the bar. Patrons noticed and started requesting the same. He ended up preparing tables with cold foods directly in the casino. People could then pay $1 and eat as much as they wanted. It was called the Buckaroo Buffet.

Present Day Buffet

Since then, the concept of a buffet has spread all across the world. The selection and prices have also increased. Traditional buffets allow customers to come into a restaurant, order, and pick out whatever they would like. Typically customers have a waitress that will remove the dirty plates and bring drinks. Restaurant buffets are very popular, allowing customers a wide variety of foods.