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You eat first with your eyes: Learn best plating practices

May 27, 2013

For many, a beautiful plate of food is akin to a work of art. As a restaurant operator, it is important to note that a dish is appealing not only to the taste buds but also to the eyes. Paying attention to food presentation can be the factor that elevates your customer’s dining experience to the next level. Did you know several studies have found that the visual presentation of food may actually affect the perceived taste of that food? A recent study researching the affects food presentation found that “The colour of the container where food and drink are served can enhance some attributes like taste and aroma,” as explained to SINC by Betina Piqueras-Fiszman, researcher at the Polytechnic University of Valencia (Spain).”

There are various methods of food presentation that are simple yet effective means to deliver that “wow” element to a dish. Read our best practices below to make sure you’re covering all your food plating bases.

Combine various textures: an experienced chef understands that humans engage all five senses when they eat. Therefore, ensuring a dish contains a texture aspect is considered best plating practices. For example, if you are serving a soup, consider topping it off with a fried tasty crunchy garnish like fried shallots, garlic, or tortilla strips.

Play with color: This one is no-brainer! Different colors can delight the eyes, so always make sure that you don’t produce a boring, muted, monochromatic dish.

plating

 

Try different dishes and containers: It’s not just what’s on the plate that matters, but also the plate itself. Experiment with using different plates and bowls for your food. Don’t be afraid to try something out-of-the-ordinary. Serve different food elements in bowls of varying colors, shapes and depth. You can even go plate-less! Try using food as a dish; think endive leaves, hollowed out pineapple, banana blossom petals – the possibilities are endless!

plating techniques

Paint with sauce: You’re a chef and an artist in the kitchen, so feel free to paint your canvas (plate) with some sauce! The beauty of this technique is that you can get really creative here. Serving up a plate of New York Cheesecake? Spoon-drizzle a combination of berry and chocolate sauce in swirls and drops.

sauce art

Be an architect: Consider plating your food as a similar process to building a house. You need to construct your base and then continue to build layers. Try creating a mini-tower of food to create some awe at the table!

As you can see, there are so many ways so elevate your food by simply paying attention to food plating and presentation. If you need assistance with learning how to plate like a culinary professional, contact Synergy Restaurant Consultants.