dîner assis
The English phrase seated dinner is translated into French as dîner assis.
This is often contrasted with a buffet (buffet-style dinner) where guests serve themselves standing or moving around.
Which one should you use?
You can also use Dîner de gala to express a seated dinner emphasizing grandeur.
Did you know?
- In high-society French dining, a dîner assis might include a 'service à la russe', where dishes are brought to the table sequentially rather than all at once.
- A traditional dîner assis in France often follows a strict order of courses where the cheese platter is served after the main course and before the dessert.
- The word assis comes from the Latin 'assessus', which shares a root with the English word 'assess', implying a sense of sitting or settling a matter.
Examples in context
- Nous préférons un dîner assis pour le mariage.We prefer a seated dinner for the wedding.
Example conversation
Nathan and Emma are discussing the catering options for a formal event.
- NathanEst-ce qu'on organise un buffet ou un dîner assis ?Are we organizing a buffet or a seated dinner?
- EmmaJe pense qu'un dîner assis est plus élégant.I think a seated dinner is more elegant.
- NathanTu as raison, Emma, c'est plus formel.You are right, Emma, it is more formal.
- EmmaD'accord, je vais contacter le traiteur.Okay, I will contact the caterer.
