Presentation before carving

Presentation before carving refers to the act of showing the whole piece to the guests, carried on a platter to the table, before returning it to the guéridon to be sliced. A golden bird, a fish in crust or a cut of beef is displayed intact to attest its quality and cooking. This ceremonial gesture, codified in classical service, opens the ritual of carving and enhances the product in the eyes of the table.