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Buffet vs. Plated Meal. What to Consider Before Making a Final Decision | Event Design

Buffet vs. Plated Meal. What to Consider Before Making a Final Decision

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Caterer: Catering by Robert

Planning the menu for your reception can be brutal. You can spend countless hours trying to figure out what exactly will please all of your guests just to end up even more confused than when you started. Eventually you may start to consider having a buffet so your loved ones have the ability to pick only the dishes that they enjoy. Seems like the easiest solution, right? Although on the surface it sounds great, this route can provide additional obstacles that a plated dinner wouldn’t have.

Plated

A plated meal allows the guest to choose between a few dishes prior to the wedding day. Once the couple receives the RSVPs with the selected meals they then share the information with the caterer who later determines which attendee gets what plate due to the escort card.

Pros

  • Less time is taken up during the reception since the guests will be served rather than individual tables waiting in a line
  • Little to no food waste
  • More sanitary
  • The little garnishes to finish off the dish creates a more appealing plate

Cons

  • There won’t be food available for loved ones who show up without RSVPing
  • Creates a more formal atmosphere which can steer couples away who prefer a laid back reception
  • Less verity in a meal
  • Guests have to choose their meal ahead of time

Buffet

Buffet dinners allow guests to get up from their seats and serve their meal to themselves (or with help from a caterer standing near by). They are able to choose exactly what they want and skip the elements that are less appealing to them.

Pros

  • Guests are allowed to choose their own portions
  • More cost effective
  • Attendees are able to try dishes that they normally wouldn’t without having to commit to an entire meal
  • Creates movement so loved ones can mingle while waiting in line

Cons

  • Takes up more reception time
  • No portion control which can lead to food waste
  • Temperature controlled food (e.g. steak or chicken) can end up being overcooked
  • Guests need to wait in line which can be difficult for loved ones with mobility issues