What is the largest knife used during a meal service?

The main course knife is specifically designed for serving larger portions of meat or more substantial items during a meal service. Its size and blade design allow for effective cutting through denser food, making it the most suitable knife for the main course items on a menu.

In contrast, the steak knife, while commonly associated with meat, often has a serrated edge meant for cutting through cooked meat rather than serving it. The table knife, which is generally used for a variety of foods, is typically smaller and not specifically designed for larger cuts. The butter knife is intended for spreading and is much smaller, designed specifically for soft items like butter. Each of these knives serves its purpose, but when it comes to size and function in a meal service context, the main course knife stands out as the largest and most capable of handling heavier food items.