THE THREE FORMS OF TABLE SERVICE
1. The Russian Service is most formal. No food is on the table except candy and nuts. All serving is done from the pantry or the serving table. The food is attractively arranged upon suitable dishes from which each person helps himself; or portions may be arranged upon plates, one of which is placed before each person. The former method is preferable.
2. The English Service is informal. The food is placed upon the table and served by those seated at the head and the foot. If one has a maid, the passing is done by her; if not, by those sitting at the table.
3. The Mixed Service is a combination of the two mentioned and requires the service of a waitress. Some of the courses are served “from the side” (Russian), and some “from the table” (English). Frequently the meat is served from the table and the accompanying vegetables served from the side (Russian).
Manage your buying so that your guests may enjoy your company as well as your feasts