While one may think that translation is a simple task of simply expressing the text provided in a different language, translation can be a complex task to accomplish. A menu should be rather more than a simple list of entrees and prices, but should be an introduction of the quality a customer can expect. Thus, a menu can in fact be a great marketing and sales tool.
As so, the translation of a menu should be trusted not only to a professional in the translation field but also an expert in the hospitality food and beverage area, who can be able to convey the message in a different language. Otherwise, what can result is a literal and ordinary translation potentially portraying a poor image of the business.
On the other hand, menus often have a cultural aspect frequently difficult to translate to a different language. A typical dish for example might be impossible to translate, some strategic thinking might have to take place for this and any typical preparation processes in the making of the dish. A translator must also have in mind the regional aspects that factor into translations. Sometimes a name given to an ingredient or food will be different depending on regions, cities and most likely from country to country.
To conclude, it is safe to say that translating a menu is a task a bit more complex than what one might think. Typical foods and beverages around the world are a strong cultural element of societies and a menu should convey this to our clients.
To read the original version of this article in Spanish, visit: https://www.trustedtranslations.com/los-menus-una-carta-de-presentacion-al-publico-2013-11-06.html