What is a menu descriptor?

A menu descriptor is fundamentally a brief dish description that provides diners with insights into the key ingredients and flavors of a menu item. This is crucial for enhancing the dining experience as it not only informs customers about what they can expect in terms of taste and presentation but also helps in showcasing the uniqueness of each dish. Well-crafted descriptors can evoke imagery and appetite appeal, making the food more enticing. They may also include important information for dietary preferences, such as whether a dish is gluten-free, vegan, or contains allergens, thereby aiding customers in making informed choices.

While pricing strategies, portion guidelines, and special offers play important roles in menu planning and customer satisfaction, they do not serve the primary function of enticing customers or informing them about the specific components and flavor profiles of the dishes themselves, which is the essence of a menu descriptor.