Serving styles refer to the various methods used to present and distribute food to guests during a meal. Common styles include buffet, where diners serve themselves from a variety of dishes; plated service, where meals are pre-portioned and served to each guest; and family style, where dishes are placed on the table for guests to share and serve themselves. Each serving style has its own advantages and is chosen based on the occasion, the number of guests, and the type of food being served. For example, buffet is often preferred for casual gatherings, while plated service is more formal and suitable for events like weddings or fine dining.