An amuse-bouche is a single, bite-sized hors d’œuvre. Amuse-bouches are different from a appetizer in that they are not ordered from a menu by patrons, but, when served, are done so free and according to the chef's selection alone.
These, often accompanied by a complementing wine, are served both to prepare the guest for the meal and to offer a glimpse into the chef's approach to the art of cuisine. The term is French, and is literally translated as "mouth amuser".
