À la carte is a French term that means “by the menu” or “according to the menu.” It refers to ordering individual items from a menu, as opposed to ordering a set meal or a prix fixe option. In a restaurant setting, à la carte allows customers to choose each dish separately, giving them flexibility and control over what they want to eat. This contrasts with other dining options where dishes are pre-selected or offered as part of a combination. The term is often used to describe a way of eating that allows for customization, with each dish priced separately.
Ten Sentences Using “À la carte”
- At the upscale restaurant, we decided to go à la carte instead of ordering the set menu.
- The à la carte menu offers a variety of appetizers, main courses, and desserts, allowing diners to create their perfect meal.
- She preferred to order à la carte because it gave her the freedom to select exactly what she wanted.
- The restaurant offers both a buffet and an à la carte option, so you can choose how you want to dine.
- The waiter handed us the à la carte menu, and we eagerly scanned it for our favorite dishes.
- We were surprised at how much more expensive the à la carte meal turned out to be compared to the set menu.
- For special occasions, the chef prepares a deluxe à la carte menu featuring gourmet dishes.
- The à la carte option is perfect for those who prefer a more personalized dining experience.
- At the brunch, we could order individual items à la carte, like pancakes, eggs, and bacon.
- The chef suggested some à la carte items that paired well with the wine selection.
Synonyms for “À la carte”
- By the menu
- Individual order
- Separate dish
- Custom order
- On-demand
- Customizable menu
Antonyms for “À la carte”
- Prix fixe (set menu)
- Table d’hôte
- Buffet
- Combo meal
- Pre-selected menu
- Fixed meal
Phrasal Verbs for “À la carte”
- Order off (to order items from the menu, often in the context of à la carte)
- Pick out (to choose specific items from a menu, typically in à la carte dining)
- Go for (to choose an item from the à la carte menu)
- Ask for (to request a specific dish from the à la carte options)
Idiomatic Expressions for “À la carte”
- Have it your way: A concept similar to à la carte, allowing someone to choose exactly what they want.
- Pick and choose: Referring to selecting individual items or options, just like choosing from an à la carte menu.
- On demand: Describing something that is available upon request, like ordering individual items à la carte.
- Mix and match: Choosing different elements or items individually, similar to creating a customized à la carte meal.
- Your choice: Giving someone the option to select exactly what they want, much like ordering à la carte.
- Make it personal: Tailoring an experience to individual preferences, much like à la carte dining allows for personal customization.
