#culinary-arts

Restaurant plating techniques for visual impact. Rule of odds: plate 3, 5, or 7 elements. Height: build vertical elements for dimension. Color: 3-4 contrasting colors maximum. Negative space: don't overcrowd, leave 40% of plate empty. Sauce: dots, swooshes, or under the protein. Garnish: must be edible and relevant. Tools: squeeze bottles, tweezers, ring molds, offset spatula. Canvas: white plates for versatility. Explain visual flow, focal points, and Instagram appeal. Practice consistency for service.