Catering Tips for Buffets

Many people planning a party or event opt for buffet-style service over plated meals. It is a common and popular options because it provides several benefits in terms of convenience, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and much more. However, not every event is best suited for buffet catering, so be sure you know the difference.

If you choose to have buffets at your event, there are some important tips you need to know in order to ensure the best experience possible. Continue reading to learn these tips, including how to determine if your event is a good fit for buffet-style catering.

Buffet Catering Services 678-340-0510

Buffet Catering Services 678-340-0510

Types of Events

As mentioned, not all events are good fits for buffets. For instance, if you are dressing up in black tie and formal wear, you wouldn’t expect to navigate through a buffet and serve yourself at dinner. So to help make the determination between plated meals and a buffet simply consider the type of event you are planning. The general rule of thumb is that the more formal the event, the more you should lean toward plated meals. If your guests are dressing up in jackets, dresses, gowns, or tuxedos, a plated meal service would be more appropriate. However, more laid back events, are well-suited for self-service.

There are some exceptions to this rule, however. The higher the guest count gets, the less practical a buffet will be. Large events with hundreds of guests would not do well with a buffet, regardless of how formal or informal. The amount of time and space needed would be too much. Another exception are weddings. Weddings can be formal, but receptions are usually more informal. Wedding receptions would be well-suited for buffets, so long as the guest list doesn’t exceed 100 guests; then it could become less practical.

When to Choose a Buffet

Buffets are great options for parties that are offering more than one entrée option. This is especially helpful if you are unsure of the dietary restrictions or preferences of all the guests expected to attend. Another example of when buffets are a good choice is when you are planning an event that is not centered on a dinner. For instance, if you are hosting an event with a focus on a certain activity, such as a poker tournament or networking social, a buffet would be the perfect fit since it comes secondary to the main activity.

Quasi Buffet

For some events, having both plated meal service and buffets can be beneficial. This works by having salads and desserts on each place setting prior to guest arrival, followed by a buffet selection of appetizers and main courses. The advantages of a hybrid buffet approach is mostly centered on efficiency and convenience. Not only does it reduce the amount of foot traffic carrying plates from line to table, it makes certain a consistent start time for dinner.

Another optional approach to this type of buffet-service is to incorporate a “captain’s call”, which means that wait staff will alert each table when it is time to take their turn in the buffet line. This is especially helpful for events with a large guest count.

Professional Event Caterers You Can Trust

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for Newnan event catering at an affordable price. We are seasoned culinary specialists with a passion to serve excellent meals with the highest level of professionalisms. Choose from our popular catering menu, or work with our catering coordinators to customize a menu according to your particular needs and interests. We can also provide assistance with décor, themes, vendors, and more! Request a free estimate, today.

The Benefits of Farm to Table Catering

Have you ever noticed that fruit picked straight from the vine is more enjoyable than the fruit you pick up at the grocery store? Or that farmers’ markets seem to always have the best meat and produce? The reason behind these scenarios is due to the simple fact that local foods are just better. They don’t travel a far distance, so they retain their freshness and quality.

Aside from taste and quality, there are several additional advantages of farm-to-table dining. If you are planning to cater an upcoming event or party, consider farm to table cuisine for a healthy and delicious alternative that will be sure to pleasantly surprise each and every one of your guests!

Continue reading to learn the most admired benefits of farm-to-table cuisine, and who to call for fresh and local catering service in your town.

Farm-to-Table Catering Services 678-340-0510

Farm-to-Table Catering Services 678-340-0510

It’s More Nutritious

Local food is healthier because it doesn’t travel for miles and miles before arriving at its retail destination and it is free of preservative chemicals. When it comes to just produce, local yields are not picked early and left to ripen during its transit. So the fresher it is, the more nutritious. And fruits and vegetables that are picked right before consumption retain the highest amount of nutrients and vitamins.

It’s Better for the Environment

Since there is very little transit involved in distributing local foods, farm-to-table cuisine is also good for the environment because it requires less fuel to get the job done. This means less invasive mining for natural resources and less harmful emissions, making it a sustainable practice.

It Supports Animal Welfare

Big, profit-driven companies are known to use inhumane methods of animal management. Independent local farms have smaller operations. Not only do they have the time to pay close attention to their animals, they are naturally committed to the upmost standards of animal welfare and use a concentrated approach to manage their livestock. And healthier happier animals makes for better-tasting cuisine.

It Boosts the Local Economy

When foods are outsourced from other cities and states, it doesn’t help out the local economies at all. Farm-to-table cuisine supports the local economy and gives vendors and farmers the business they need to thrive. At the same time, it keeps the cost of produce and meat down.

It Improves Food-Related Businesses

Since the demand for farm-to-table cuisine is increasing, restaurants and retailers benefit from more business if they have local products on their menus. And because local is cheaper, it also keeps overhead costs down. This is one reason farm-to-table catering has become such a popular option for anyone planning a party or an event. In fact, the trend is even starting to spread to cafeterias and schools too!

Farm-to-Table Caterers Near You

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Food for Thought Catering 678-340-0510

Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for quality farm-to-table catering in Newnan, Georgia. We provide a wide range of catering selections, all of which combine the freshest ingredients, most authentic flavors, seasonal produce, and current culinary trends. You are guaranteed the best quality cuisines and service, regardless of your event’s size and scope. Request a consultation, today!