Sandwich platters or buffet food: which one is the best for your event? Well, that depends. When planning an event, the catering options available are one of the most important considerations. An incorrect choice could be make or break.
There are various catering styles to choose from, each offering its own unique advantages and considerations. This makes selecting the right style challenging.
In this blog, we at Top Table want to give you a helping hand. We’ll explore different catering styles, ranging from sandwich platters to buffet spreads, to help you select the one that best suits your event.
Exploring The Options: Our 6 Favourites
Sandwich Platters
Party platters are a classic choice for casual gatherings, meetings and small-scale events. They offer an easy way to provide a variety of sandwich options to your guests. The broad highlights of this style are as follows:
Versatility
Ease of Service
Cost-Effective
Finger Foods and Canapés
For cocktail parties and more formal events, finger foods and canapés are a popular choice. Not only visually appealing, canapés also allow guests to easily mingle and socialise. Plus, it adds a touch of class to the event. Key highlights include:
Variety
Elegance
Portability
Buffet Style
Buffet food is a highly versatile option suitable for a wide range of events, from weddings to corporate gatherings. The benefits:
Diversity
Customisation
Efficiency
Food Stations
Because of their engaging and interactive nature, this style of catering has gained popularity. Guests can move from station to station, selecting their preferred dishes. Benefits include:
Interaction
Diverse Cuisine
Visual Appeal
Plated Service
If you are hosting a more formal event, you may wish to consider plated service. Elegant and formal, this can really elevate an event. Broadly, it offers the following:
Elegance
Controlled Portions
Professional Service
Family-Style Dining
This strikes a great balance between buffet and plated service. Large platters of food are placed on each table, creating a communal dining experience. This results in the following:
Interaction
Variety
Less Formality
Consider Your Event
When selecting any of the above, it is important to consider your event closely. You may wish to ask yourself:
- What is the budget?
- What are the guest preferences?
- What sort of atmosphere are you trying to create?
Weddings and corporate events, for example, may find plated service more suitable, whilst party platters may suffice for less formal gatherings.
In addition to catering, it is important to consider equipment. This will ensure the event runs smoothly and you are equipped to deliver to your guests. If you require assistance with catering hire in Cardiff, contact a member of our team today.