What is the primary function of a menu in a restaurant?

The primary function of a menu in a restaurant is to inform customers of the available food and drinks. A menu serves as a guide that presents the various options patrons can choose from, allowing them to make informed decisions about their meal. It outlines the offerings available at the restaurant, including descriptions of the dishes, ingredients, and how they are prepared. This is essential for setting customer expectations and enhancing their dining experience, as it helps them understand what they can order and what they might enjoy.

While listing prices is indeed a part of most menus, simply displaying prices is not the core purpose of a menu. Similarly, promoting the restaurant’s history and showcasing the chef's biography can add to the atmosphere and enhance customer appreciation, but these elements do not encompass the main function of a menu, which is primarily to provide information about the food and beverages offered.