Silver service, sometimes called butler service originated in Britain. It is the method of serving food at a table whereby the waiter transfers foodstuffs from a serving dish, chafing dish or platter onto the guest's plate. The food is not simply scooped but a spoon and fork are held by the waiter so that the handle of the spoon is threaded through the fingers of the right hand with the fork resting on top. It would be very unusual for a left-handed person to be a silver service waiter unless they could master the use of their right hand for serving. This allows the server to manipulate the fork and spoon to delicately lift the food to be served and placed on the guest's plate. Silver service is always from the left of the guest and continues around the table clockwise.

This technique of service requires much practice and dexterity which is why silver service is normally only used in higher-class restaurants.

Typical foods one might see served this way are Crêpes Suzette, individual vegetables and chicken pieces.

More Info: aclasscatering.com.au