What is the primary role of a restaurant's signature dish as a culinary calling card?

Answer

To act as an embodiment of the establishment's identity and brand association.

The signature dish functions as much more than just a high-selling item; it is fundamentally the culinary representation or calling card of the restaurant. It embodies the establishment's core identity, philosophy, and unique flair, often becoming synonymous with the dining experience offered in the public consciousness. While high sales often accompany it, its primary function is definitional and representative, much like a company's logo visually and tastefully communicates who the business is.

What is the primary role of a restaurant's signature dish as a culinary calling card?
foodRestaurantdish