People sometimes use the terms “cafeteria” and “canteen” interchangeably when referring to eating establishments, although there are distinct differences in their usage between American and British English. Here’s a quick rundown of these terms and the kinds of places they usually relate to.

Cafeterias, like those at McDonald’s and KFC, are where patrons place their orders and pick up their food. These places usually have a counter where customers wait in queue to see the menu, place their orders and occasionally pay all at once. After that, meals are brought on trays at dining tables furnished with chairs. Self-service is what sets a cafeteria apart from traditional dining establishments, where waiters take orders and serve food at the table.

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Canteen

‘Canteen’ is a term that is more widely used in British contexts than it is in American ones, where it primarily refers to a military establishment that feeds military personnel. In Commonwealth nations, a canteen is a more affordable option for a basic menu at lower costs than cafeterias. It is typically located in companies, institutions, and hospitals. The term “canteen” also describes a water bottle that troops and hikers use in the United States. In an effort to save time and money by discouraging workers from leaving the premises to dine, canteens usually subsidise the cost of meals.

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