‖ à la carte
(ælæˈkɑːt)
[See a la and carte1 5.]
‘By the card (or menu)’: said of meals which are ordered at a hotel or restaurant in separate items, each having its specified price. (Distinguished from a table d'hôte meal, which is served at a fixed inclusive price.) Also transf.
| 1826 Sherer Ramble in Germany 252 He will find comfortable apartments, civil attendance, excellent fare, à la carte, at any hour. 1914 ‘I. Hay’ Lighter Side School Life vii. 189 If you want to have your son educated à la carte, you must get a private tutor for him. 1933 D. C. Peel Life's Enchanted Cup xvi. 211 A restaurant for the staff, where meals were served à la carte. 1944 Runyon (title) Runyon à la carte. 1966 Automobile Assoc. Members Handbk. 1966/67 30 A minimum charge for the à la carte menu. |