Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Describing a type of restaurant meal that is complete, offered with a limited selection of courses, and available at a fixed, set price.

2. Noun:

   • A menu that offers a complete multi-course meal with a limited choice of dishes for each course at a fixed, inclusive price.

Usage

• Adjective:

  • The restaurant offers a table d'hôte dinner on weekends.
  • We chose the table d'hôte option as it was simpler and better value.

• Noun:

  • The table d'hôte included a starter, main course, and dessert.
  • I prefer ordering from the table d'hôte rather than the extensive à la carte menu.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often contrasted with à la carte, which refers to ordering individual dishes from a menu, each priced separately.
  • The table d'hôte is perfect for a quick business lunch, while the à la carte menu is for a more leisurely dining experience.

Variants and Related Words

• Prix fixe (noun/adjective): A synonym for , literally meaning "fixed price" in French. It is often used interchangeably, though can sometimes imply an even more limited or no choice.
  • The restaurant's prix fixe menu is a fantastic deal.

Synonyms

• Fixed-price menu (noun): A direct English translation.
• Set menu (noun): A common English term with the same meaning.

Notes on Meaning

• The phrase is borrowed from French, where it literally means "host's table." Historically, it referred to a meal served at a common table for all guests at a fixed time and price, as in an inn.
• In modern usage, it specifically denotes the pricing and menu structure (complete meal, limited choice, fixed price), not necessarily a shared dining table.

Adjective

1. (of a restaurant meal) complete but with limited choices and at a fixed price

Noun

1. a menu offering a complete meal with limited choices at a fixed price