Wording for Menu explaining the alternate drop

Hey Jessica, I don't think you'll have much luck - I think the phrase 'alternate drop' is unique to Aus and NZ. It's very common here in Australia so I wouldn't think it would need much explaining. I would just put both options on my menus, separated by an 'or'.

Obviously people with special dietary requirements would be catered for separate to the alternate service. I imagine it would be considered quite uncouth in other countries, but I've been to plenty of formal events where there is a flurry of plate swapping once the meals are set down!

Not knowing what this was I Googled it, so for others who might not know as well...

At a formal event, two different menus are served, with 50% of the guests getting the meals from Menu A, and 50% getting the meals from Menu B. Every second person at the table gets the "alternate" menu. For example, if you have a table of 8 people, and the main course from Menu A is chicken, and the main course from Menu B is beef, four will get the chicken, and four will get the beef. The "drop" is totally random. That is, guests don't get to choose beforehand which meal they'd like to receive.

The rationale behind the "alternate drop" is to allow for some variety in meals, without breaking the bank (as two different menus is cheaper then say, five) and more efficient (as waitstaff don't have to bother taking orders beforehand, etc. There is an unwritten rule that guests at a table are allowed to swap meals with each other. However, guests cannot swap with people from other tables - that would be considered over the top.

Tina, is it something that's done in the US at all? It's much cheaper than al a carte service because you're still making a set number of meals based on the head count.

Often you will work out what meal you want before it's served. At formal dinners for work it's always good to be seated next to male guests/colleagues as I don't eat red meat so I can always find someone to swap for a chicken option if I get the steak!

I've never seen it done, but I like it! Would they do family style entrees instead?

^^^^ great idea!

eta: No idea Shannon, I only just heard of this on this thread. We are doing something different, offering both the filet mignon and chicken on the same plate. I am sure there will be trading and sharing