A self-service meal is a type of dining experience where customers serve themselves from a selection of food that is laid out in a BUFFET-style format. This type of meal is often found in cafeterias, restaurants, and other establishments. Customers can choose from a variety of dishes and can take as much or as little as they want. The term 'BUFFET' is derived from the French word for 'COUNTER, ' which is where the food is usually placed.