The document discusses the origins and evolution of modern food service. It begins by explaining how quantity cookery has existed for thousands of years to feed large groups, and that modern food service is said to have begun in the mid-18th century in France when caterers and other food producers were organized into guilds. It then outlines several key developments in France like the rise of restaurants and how the French Revolution stimulated new changes. The document also profiles influential chefs who helped codify and modernize haute cuisine. Finally, it provides descriptions of various types of common food service styles.