We are so accustomed to the existing service sector that we can no longer imagine our lives without cafes, restaurants, cinemas and other entertainment venues. Now it seems that they have been around for a very long time. But, oddly enough, the restaurant business has its origins only in the 18th century, and it is only about 250 years old. What was the starting point for its development? The history of restaurants is very rich, despite such a short time.
Development background
People have always loved to eat well and tasty, but not everyone has culinary talents, and it takes a lot of time to prepare culinary delights. Even in the old days there were establishments where you could eat and drink. Although it was impossible to call them restaurants. These were mostly taverns where simple food was served, and the interior left much to be desired.
Simple wooden tables, simple utensils and plain, everyday dishes, didthese establishments are not so attractive. It's not that the food was not tasty, but the contingent that attended them was very interesting.
Here you could hear drunken swearing and greasy words. For representatives of high society, taverns were not attractive. Therefore, the issue of opening establishments of a higher level became more and more urgent.
First restaurant
The history of the restaurant begins in 1765. It was at this time that the first institution was opened, which became the prototype of the restaurant. The initiator of this was the Frenchman Boulanger. The first restaurant appeared in Paris. It couldn't be otherwise. The inhabitants of this country have always had a passion for everything exquisite. But it did not immediately become popular.
The history of the restaurants had just begun to develop, and this institution still had to go through a difficult path to perfection. The purpose of the creation was to make something more refined than a tavern. What was the menu of the restaurant? History shows that the list of dishes was poor. Basically it was food from various types of meat and poultry. The menu also included rich broth.
Development of restaurant business
Over time, new similar establishments began to appear. Every day the interior and menu of the restaurants changed. This is where competition comes into play. The history of restaurants was continued, and this business was put on stream. Particular attention was paid to the appearance of institutions. They were furnished with luxurious furniture and decorated with crystal chandeliers. Restaurant menu toochanged. Hundreds of dishes appeared in it, which met the tastes of the most demanding aristocrats.
At the entrance guests were greeted by servants in livery, which made the first restaurants even more pompous. Particular attention was paid to wine cellars. In the most luxurious establishments, magnificent stocks were collected, which amazed with their assortment. In 1786, the French government officially extended restaurants until 11 p.m.
Restaurant business strides the world
Gradually, restaurateurs realized the full benefits of such establishments. Basically, they were created with a focus on noble people, travelers and visitors. But the history of restaurants has begun a new chapter. The experience of the French was adopted by many Europeans. In each country, establishments acquired their own unique flavor and offered cuisine traditional for the area.
Comfort and coziness have become an integral part of the restaurant. The range of dishes and the possibility of choice made the establishments very popular. The oldest restaurants "Grand Tavern de Londr" in France and "Sobrino de Botín" in Spain became the founders of this business. The history of restaurant development contains many interesting facts.
Restaurants in Russia
In our country, everything happened a little differently. The history of restaurants in Russia dates back to the 19th century. At that time, there were taverns, taverns and taverns in the country. The level of these establishments left much to be desired. These were simple drinking establishments where you canwas to have a bite to eat simple food in a very diverse society. Despite the fact that in Europe the restaurant business has already reached a high level, in Russia this business has not yet received its development.
During the reign of Ivan the Terrible, a decree was issued that stipulated the places for the sale of alcoholic beverages. These were the king's taverns, and they brought a good profit. Then these establishments began to be called drinking houses. It happened in the 19th century. The right to organize them appeared not only for the state, but also for private individuals. Naturally, any alcoholic drink should be served with a good snack. Therefore, various dishes began to be prepared in drinking houses. Mostly they were pies and a few hot culinary creations that were not particularly intricate. Then drinking houses were replaced by taverns. The purpose of these establishments was to sell food and drink, which were traditional for Russian cuisine. At the end of the 19th century, many coffee houses, taverns and tea houses appeared, but their class remained at a not very high level. The concept of a restaurant was still very far away.
The first restaurant in Moscow
The Slavyansky Bazar restaurant, opened at the end of the 19th century, can be considered the first establishment of the elite class. At the time, it seemed like something out of the ordinary. Firstly, I was struck by the architecture of the building, which already evoked thoughts about the high level of the restaurant. Even more amazing for those times seemed to be the kitchen. It was no longer a few simple meals.
Chefs created newculinary masterpieces and presented old, proven recipes in their brightest manifestation. The menu of the restaurant included hearty and nutritious dishes that gave a complete picture of real food. All this luxury was perfectly combined with a truly Russian scale. The restaurant was sure to have dances and songs of gypsies.
Further development
The history of the creation of a restaurant in Russia is not over. These establishments are in high demand. The breadth of the Russian soul and passion for good and hearty food did their job. Gradually, the restaurant business developed in both capitals. Institutions of this class began to be distinguished by categories. The setting, the quality of the food and the entertainment began to play a big role.
The process of development of this business was unstoppable. The greatest need of mankind had to be met. Today it seems that the level of development of restaurants has reached its maximum value. But there is never a limit to perfection. Guests are offered more refined dishes from the best products. Elite restaurants have their own wine cellars. The best chefs offer amazing author's dishes, so the restaurant menu is constantly being improved. Thanks to these masters of culinary art, you can enjoy the most delicious food and spend time in a cozy and comfortable environment.
Restaurants have firmly entered our lives. Here are the most important events in our lives. The history of the restaurant, although short, is very rich. It is written by professionals in their field.
