EXHIBIT 23.1




CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8 No. 333-63863) of Sodexho Marriott Services,  Inc. pertaining to the Sodexho
Marriott Services,  Inc. 401(k) Employees'  Retirement Savings Plan and Trust of
our report dated June 9, 2000,  with  respect to the  financial  statements  and
schedule of the Sodexho Marriott  Services,  Inc. 401(k)  Employees'  Retirement
Savings Plan and Trust  included in this Annual  Report (Form 11-K) for the year
ended December 31, 1999.


                              /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

McLean, Virginia
June 20, 2000