What is the appropriate way to serve food to guests?

Serving food from the left side of the guest is considered the proper etiquette in formal dining settings. This approach allows for a smoother service experience, as it aligns with the way guests are generally seated and makes it easier for them to receive their dishes without disruption. By placing the dish in front of the guest, it ensures that the server can maintain a comfortable distance while providing the guest with their meal.

Using this method also enhances the overall dining experience by allowing the server to maintain better eye contact and attention to the guests' needs while serving, which can foster a more personal and engaging environment. It helps to create a flow and rhythm to the service, making it less likely for dishes to be spilled or disrupted during the serving process.

Serving from the right side, while sometimes appropriate in certain informal settings, doesn't align with the standards of formal dining. Passing dishes around the table for self-serving or serving from behind the guest can introduce confusion or interruptions, detracting from the overall dining experience. Therefore, serving from the left is a well-established standard in hospitality that prioritizes both guest comfort and efficient service.