Catering & Bar
Plated Service
A formal reception meal where guests stay seated and servers deliver pre-selected entrées.
Plated service is the most formal reception meal style. Guests select their entrée when they RSVP, the kitchen plates each course, and servers deliver to seated guests.
Plated meals require accurate meal-selection tracking, a seating chart with meal indicators (usually a colored sticker on the place card so servers know what to bring), and a longer dinner block (75-90 minutes).
Related terms
Buffet
A self-serve reception meal where guests visit one or more food stations.
Family-Style Service
Reception meal served on large platters at each table that guests pass and serve themselves.
Food Stations
Multiple themed food stations placed around the reception space (carving, pasta, taco, raw bar, etc.) where guests serve themselves.