Gourmet (US: , UK: ) is a cultural idea associated with the culinary arts of fine food and drink, or haute cuisine, which is characterized by refined, even elaborate preparations and presentations of aesthetically balanced meals of several contrasting, often quite rich courses. Historically the ingredients used in the meal tended to be rare for the region, which could also be impacted by the local state and religious customs. The term and the related characteristics are typically used to describe people with refined tastes and enthusiasm. Gourmet food is frequently provided in more expensive, smaller servings. When it comes to Gourmet, there are also frequently cross-cultural interactions that introduce new ingredients, materials, and traditions.