"Family style" dining by narrow definition is essentially eating communally at large tables, but it is so much more. Gathering together for "family style" shared meals has to be one of life's greatest pleasures. Conversation flows easily as guests pass heaping platters of food to each other.
If you're torn between a sit-down formal dinner or an informal buffet, a "family style" dinner might be the perfect middle ground. Service staff are kept to a minimum and guests need never leave their seats for the "chow line".
