Creating a Buffet Table

Presentation of the buffet table: Any caterer or hotel chef will tell you that the most important factor of a buffet table is the way the food appears to the guests. An effective buffet presentation will impress your guests and help create an atmosphere of splendor, even on a budget.

Remember, these tables are part of your event décor and theme.

Jefferson Street Mansion - Buffet Table - Jen's Foodie Blog

 Basic Rules for Buffet & Party Tables

Here are some basic rules to follow to help you create interesting and enticing buffet tables for special events.

*Elevate the food dishes. Unless you are having a potluck you should NEVER serve your foods on flat trays across a table.  This can be done in several ways:

* Use heavy books covered by a tablecloth or linen napkins, you may also want to make a staircase presentation with the books covering them with linen napkins and then placing your food items onto them simulating a staircase. Make sure the books you use are heavy enough to hold the items you are placing on top of them.

* Large and small bowls turned upside down and covered with tablecloths or linen napkins. Make sure the bowls you use are sturdy enough to hold the items placed onto them.

* Cake stands are also a great way to elevate foods and even use as centerpieces. Check with family and friends.

* Check around the house to see what you have readily available to use. Just remember, the items you decide to use MUSTbe sturdy and strong enough to hold the item/items you wish to place on top of them.

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* Layering adds depth and interest so when you are creating place shorter items in front of the taller items. Use odd numbers in groupings, for example: 2-3 décor items with 2-3 food items. This has been a long proven method for presentations.

* Fill the table with color for eye appeal. In addition to the foods being served place ribbons, pyramids of fresh fruit, greenery, flowers and/or candles, unique tabletop décor items and even small statuettes to add interest in and around the food trays to create an interesting and memorable buffet.

* Garnish the food trays. You don’t need to spend hours carving up radishes and apples but it is advisable to add something! Here are a few ideas:

*Frame each dish with a green leaf lettuce such as romaine.

* Add fresh flowers or even one

* Add melon slices to compliment and add eye appeal

* Add parsley

Buffet Table Collage - Lemon Tree Creations

                * Add fresh strawberries, pineapple chunks or your favorite fruit

All these items are simple add-ons that will help you transform your buffet table into an amazing presentation of great tasting and great appealing foods for you and your guest!