A lesser-known aspect of restaurants is the "family meal"—a communal meal that staff members share before service begins. This tradition builds camaraderie and allows chefs to test new recipes or use up ingredients that might otherwise go to waste. It embodies the restaurant's culture and can be a unique expression of the team's culinary creativity. Guests rarely see this behind-the-scenes ritual, but it's an integral part of the restaurant's daily rhythm. Intrigued? Share your own overlooked restaurant fact or personal insider story—I'd love to hear it!