Having a Casual dining establishment does not mean you have to forfeit high quality customer service. Likewise, fine dining does not suggest an unrelaxed or tense customer experience. In this guide, ACityDiscount debunks the myths of fine and casual dining by comparing the similarities and differences between these two types of restaurants.
Casual Dining
ca·su·al
/?kaZHo?o?l/
adjective
relaxed or unconcerned
Oxford dictionary defines the term “casual” as relaxed or unconcerned, which shines some light on the casual dining experience – The environment is relaxed, and though you need to be concerned about the needs of these customers, those needs require lower maintenance than those of a fine dining establishment. Casual dining establishments work to provide a laid-back, informal environment while still maintaining great friendliness and customer service. At causal restaurants, you are likely to find popular food choices at economical prices.
- Decor
- In casual dining, the restaurant decor can range from bright and airy – like you would see in a sandwich shop, to dim and moody - similar to the atmosphere of an upscale eatery, with no preference to either choice.
- Table Settings
- Tables may or may not have a table cloth but will come set with silverware. Plates, cups, and wine glasses will likely come out with the entrées.
- Menu Selection
- At a casual restaurant, you will find popular menu item favorites at affordable prices.
- Dress code
- Casual eateries will rarely have a dress code. For finer casual establishments, you may be expected to avoid headwear or frayed clothing, but these policies rarely apply.
Fine Dining
fine
/fin/
adjective
of high quality
Fine dining restaurants place heavier emphasis on certain areas than casual restaurants. These establishments work to create an alluring atmosphere
- Decor
- In fine dining, the ambiance is a major factor in creating an alluring atmosphere. Bright lighting is usually not an option in these establishments because mood lighting is more ideal for creating a comfortable, calm feeling for guests.
- Table Settings
- The tables are set differently in these establishments. The tables will always come equipped with a table cloth, linen cloths, polished silverware and more (Read: 3 Easy Ways To Set Your Table).
- Menu Selection
- A fine dining menu will offer unique delicacies not found in usual menus. These distinctive dishes cause menu item prices to be generally pricier than those of casual establishments.
- Dress code
- Many fine dining establishments will require business casual attire as a minimum. Some still model traditional standards of dress where gentlemen are required to wear a suit jacket and tie.