definition
strict definition
fast food
An eatery where customers collect short-order meals at a counter and carry them to tables, excluding buffet restaurants.
A fast food outlet is a restaurant-like place where the customer can pick up food on short order at a counter, then bring it to any selected table. It does not include buffet restaurants.
Customers collect the food and choose a table rather than receiving waiter service. The availability of tables distinguishes this arrangement from food intended only for consumption elsewhere.
Buffet restaurants remain excluded. A cafeteria instead involves customers selecting and serving themselves from prepared-food stations.
