Enter "mise en place" – a collection of meticulous arrangements, tools, and traditions that enhance the magic of a meal. These elements aspire to enrich the most communal moments of our lives, leaving unforgettable memories in their wake.
We're all aware of the eye's desire for delight, and presentation plays an integral role. Just think about the soaring popularity of television programs, magazines, and blogs dedicated to food. They celebrate the flavours and the artistry of "mise en place."
Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, the esteemed French gastronome, once remarked that hosting or inviting someone to the table is caring for them, ensuring they spend a few serene hours – a sentiment we must never forget.
"Mise en place," the art of table setting, isn't merely a visual feast; it's a cherished companion that elevates dishes and communicates emotions. Nothing is left to chance: the carefully chosen colours, materials, shapes of glassware and cutlery, the sizes of containers, the selection of napkins, and the choice between round or rectangular plates, plain or adorned – all come together to convey a diverse array of culinary experiences.
Dining plays a significant role in cultures worldwide. If food reflects a society’s lifestyle at any given point in time, the same goes for the way we set the table.
In the carousel below, you will find six different table settings from around the world represented in a descriptive manner. They visually illustrate how a well-designed layout can enhance the food.
Pictures courtesy from: https://als.net.au/pages/cultural-table-settings
The meticulous arrangement of our tables conveys a positive message to our guests, making it an integral aspect of hospitality. Just as food reflects a society's lifestyle at any moment, the table's arrangement mirrors the same, whether for our everyday meals or grand, festive occasions.
For those familiar with us and those who've shared moments with us, it should come as no surprise that, despite our primary focus on manufacturing refrigerators, the "mise en place" sparks our curiosity. It aligns closely with our worldview, as the relationship between food, design, and the art of welcoming guests (i.e., care) at the dining table is an ageless and exquisite dance that transcends generations. It continues to enrich our lives in ways beyond imagination.
Hence, when our teams embark on journeys worldwide and sit down to dine, they always take a moment – and often snap a multitude of photos – to appreciate the thoughtful artistry surrounding them.
It's a testament to our enduring love for FOOD, CARE and DESIGN, an integral part of our legacy.
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Copyright HOMA 2023- Issued By Federico Rebaudo, General Manager Homa Europe on September 2023
