Garde manger refers to the area of a kitchen where cold foods are prepared and stored. It is responsible for preparing foods like salads, appetizers, and cold cuts. The garde manger prepares cold dishes, checks food quality and storage, and oversees food presentation. Some of the key functions of the garde manger include preparing cold appetizers and dishes, ensuring proper food storage and portion control, and maintaining quality standards. Charcuterie items prepared in the garde manger include sausages, bacon, hams, pates, terrines, and items cured with aspic jelly.