BUFFETS - FOOD STATIONS - FOOD BARS

Left top a draped food station
Right top food bar in front and
bottom left food bar at
back with place to hide more food
 

An unbelievable 30 years ago I started working in the hospitality industry in a large restaurant, where we did catering for different functions in and off the premises.  Back in the old days we used "food stations" for every day and large events.  The aim for division of food in stations was to let people get their food fast and to minimize the long queues at the buffet area. 

The golden rule was "PRESENTATION IS EVERYTHING!" Today this rule still stands.

Food stations must never look like a cafeteria.  Food always must be presented attractive and have all the variety of flavors a buffet offer.  After all you are doing a special event, doesn't matter what kind of event, can be a wedding or even a birthday, for that person it will be special and they want it to be remembered and keep fond memories of the event. Place, fun and beautifully styled wedding and party stations or bars, throughout your reception area. When you are expecting a large number of guests, use two or more stations with the same food on, at different locations in the reception area or in different rooms, if possible. It is brilliant way to escape the traditional previous wedding dinners that tend to be a bit formal or parties.

In the older day's food stations were packed with food in very large trays.  Today food get presented on small appetizer size plates (More like the traditional Greek Meze) so guests will take "bites" of different foods and then socialize again.  Stations can be organized by food themes, think Greek bar, Mediterranean bar, Mexican bar, Italian bar, South African bar or by different food kinds (Salad station, pasta bar or dessert bar).  Food stations are normally self-serve like the traditional buffet but can be also interactive stations where guests build actively their own food.  Because guests have to stand up, walk around and help themselves, it will minimize queues and guests will circulate and socialize.  When the guests mix and mingle, it create a casual atmosphere.

With a preset menu guests don't always like the food offered.  Food stations or food bars are an easy way for guests to pick out what they like and will help avoid food being wasted.  Guests will love the variety what food stations or bars offer. Remember at dinner hour guests are expecting a meal so plan realistically and if you not sure about the amount of food contact a professional caterer. Don't provide only snacks when it is meal time.  You don't want your guests to leave still being hungry. 

Cocktails and desserts are often easily forgotten but with a cocktail station or dessert bar guests will love having them.  By adding a bit of your own personality to the stations and bars you will make them unique and memorable. If you not sure how to do this you are welcome to contact Diamant Events SA for a consultation.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to food stations or food bars. Next time we will discuss some of my suggestions. 

Food Stations and Food Bars