What's new with the Start menu on Windows 11?

The new menu has been designed to be a simple app launcher that embraces icons ditching the Live Tiles design and follows the new design language with rounded corners and transparent materials.

The new experience includes a search box at the top, a section for your pinned app, and recommendations. You can rearrange the icons in any way you like by dragging and dropping the icons. You can still access the list with all the apps.

The "Recommended" section includes your recent files and recently installed apps, and while you cannot remove this section, you can prevent the Start menu from showing recent items.

Source - Windows 11: The ultimate tips guide | Windows Central