Worth a re-post from a year ago … how to set up a buffet.

I love entertaining buffet-style, even if it’s just for four people. I find it the simplest way to entertain, in which you can actually enjoy your guests.

A personal pet peeve of mine is what is called “family style” for a dinner, in which all the food is placed on the table and passed about. Invariably, I have to hold either an incredibly hot dish or try to serve myself while balancing a 3-pound casserole. And, of course, I feel as if I am a waiter for half the dinner, passing this and that, all the while my own food is getting cold. If it works for you fine, but I cannot stand it either as a host or a guest.



With that out of the way, let’s get to setting up a simple buffet!

You can arrange the spread anywhere, as long as it is relatively close to the dining area. Normally, I set ours up on a library table adjacent to the dining table, which is preset with flatware, glasses, bread, butter, and napkins. That way, it’s just a matter of filling your plate and sitting down. I’ve also served it on our large island-style counter (always ensure the kitchen is clean) or even on a stovetop in a 1 bedroom apartment.

Our friends at Wynn-Dixie provided this superb graphic for a standard buffet arrangement. Note the plates and main dish first, and then the items go from there. Flatware and napkins, if placed at the buffet, are always last, along with any beverages (but I always prefer to have those on the table). Even if your guests cannot move around a table, you may use this same setup for a single-line buffet.

A couple quick tips:

I plan on doing a buffet for Christmas Day night. Hope this helped give you some ideas.