In which service style do guests serve themselves from platters or bowls?

The family-style service is characterized by the communal aspect of dining where food is presented on large platters or in bowls directly on the table, allowing guests to serve themselves as they wish. This style encourages interaction and sharing among diners, making it a more casual and relaxed dining experience compared to other service styles.

In family-style service, guests can choose the portions they want, leading to a more personalized meal and the ability to sample a variety of dishes. It differs from the other service styles, such as American, where meals are plated in the kitchen and served directly to guests, or French service, which involves a more formal approach with waitstaff presenting food at the table and serving it to guests. Russian service typically features food that is fully plated before it reaches the table, with little opportunity for self-service. Therefore, the key distinguishing feature of family-style service is the self-serving aspect from shared platters or bowls, highlighting its emphasis on sharing and communal dining.