What is a significant characteristic of a buffet service?

A significant characteristic of a buffet service is that guests help themselves to portions. This style of service allows attendees to choose the amount and type of food they wish to consume, promoting flexibility and variety in their meal choices. A buffet typically features a long table or a series of tables with different food items arranged for guests to serve themselves, creating a more casual dining environment.

This approach facilitates social interaction, as guests can mingle while selecting their meals, and it generally allows for a more relaxed atmosphere compared to traditional sit-down meals. The self-service nature of buffets also enables the host to cater to larger groups efficiently, making it a popular option for events like parties and weddings where variety is crucial.