The Art of Dining: Decoding a Guatemalan Menu

When dining in Guatemala, understanding the order of courses on the menu is essential to fully immerse yourself in the culinary experience. Each course serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall dining experience.

Aperitivo

The first course on a Guatemalan menu is the aperitivo. This could be a pre-meal drink like a cocktail or a small appetizer to stimulate the appetite.

Entrada

Following the aperitivo is the entrada, which is the starter or first course of the meal. It usually consists of light dishes such as soups, salads, or small plates.

Plato de Fondo

The plato de fondo is the main course of the meal. This is where you'll find heartier dishes like meats, stews, or other substantial offerings.

Postre

After enjoying the main course, it's time for dessert. The postre is the sweet ending to the meal and can include traditional Guatemalan sweets or desserts.

Bajativo

To complete the dining experience, the final course is the bajativo. This is a digestive drink or after-dinner drink that helps aid in digestion and signals the end of the meal.

By following this order of courses in a Guatemalan menu, you can savor each dish and appreciate the thought and tradition behind the culinary journey. So, next time you find yourself dining in Guatemala, remember the art of dining and enjoy every course to the fullest!