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

The primary purpose of a menu in a restaurant is to inform customers about food and beverage options available to them. It serves as a critical communication tool that guides diners through the choices they have, providing descriptions, prices, and sometimes even suggestions for pairings. This clear presentation allows customers to make informed decisions about what to order based on their tastes, dietary restrictions, and budgets.

While menus can also play roles in marketing, reducing food waste, and managing employee responsibilities, these functions are secondary to the fundamental objective of conveying information about the dining options. A menu showcases the restaurant's offerings and can entice customers to try certain dishes, but its primary role is to ensure that patrons are aware of and understand what is available for them to select from during their dining experience.