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19 December 2025
The Flavor Secret of Small but Thoughtful Menus
True flavor lies not in the number of dishes, but in a small menu prepared with care, quality ingredients, and clear focus.
When you walk into a restaurant, menus that stretch across multiple pages may seem impressive at first glance. However, true flavor is often found in menus that are small but carefully crafted. It is no coincidence that many good restaurants have adopted this approach in recent years.
Kitchens that offer a limited number of dishes can devote more time and care to each plate. Ingredients are usually fresh and seasonal, and every recipe has been tested, refined, and balanced to reflect the character of the kitchen. As a result, each dish served is not ordinary, but the product of conscious craftsmanship.
In large menus, maintaining the same level of quality across every dish can be difficult. With simple menus, however, the kitchen knows exactly what it does best and focuses all its energy there. This leads to flavors that are clearer, stronger, and more memorable.
From the guest’s perspective, decision-making becomes easier. Instead of overthinking, guests trust the kitchen’s recommendations. This sense of trust makes the dining experience more enjoyable.
Small but focused menus also reduce waste, improve kitchen discipline, and support sustainability. They create a more balanced experience for both the restaurant and the guest.
In conclusion, what truly matters is not the number of dishes on the menu, but the effort behind them, the quality of the ingredients, and the intention of the kitchen. Real flavor is often hidden in simplicity.