Matilda L wrote:I assume waiters carry the bread basin full of salad or whatever else in their bare hands? And does the bread basin then get plonked onto the table or place-mat without benefit of plate beneath? I hope the waiters wash their hands and insert at least a disposable paper mat underneath!
I can't speak for medieval table service but nowadays the bread bowl or taco bowl comes on a plate. It's just an affectation.