Flavor First

“Too much presentation and not enough flavor.” That is an often-expressed opinion of some of the complicated towering constructions that were common on dessert plates not long ago. It is true that you can be more structural with dessert presentations than with hot food. It is also true, as the old saying goes, that “the eye eats first.” But it is important to remember that food is still food. After the customers have demolished the structure on the plate and finished eating, it is the flavor—or lack of it—they will remember. The presentation should enhance the flavor experience, not cover up a lack of flavor.