If you’re thinking of holding a dinner party or event to celebrate a special occasion for friends or family, why not ‘posh it up’ a bit and hold your own silver service event? With a few simple tips, you can organise a spectacular event that will be the talk of your loved ones for a long time. But first of all, what exactly is silver service?
Silver service is the name given to a specific way of plating and serving meals and is commonly known throughout the food and beverage world as offering higher standards of service. Silver service bypasses the usual plating of the food that happens in the kitchen, and instead, involves bringing out the dishes on separate plates, to serve up to the diner in the quantities they desire using service forks and spoons. The basic rule is to serve from the left hand side of the person and clear from the right. So, if you’re thinking of holding a silver service type event, below are some simple etiquette and tips to help. Find out more on The Caterer.
Set the table correctly
According to Global Good Group, laying the table is called Mise en Place and tables must be laid according to strict rules. The arrangement of components on the table is an important part of silver service and is notably done so that the table looks professional and of a high quality. For example, the cutlery needs to be placed in the correct position and glasses should be arranged at a diagonal angle for each guest, including several wine glasses, as well as a water glass at the forefront.
Use the correct equipment
Not only must the table be laid correctly, it is also important that there is the correct use of linen, carving utensils and table decorations. For example, items such as corkscrews, ice buckets, meat knifes, trolleys and service cloths should be readily available.
Prepare the menu
The sheer range of dishes that can be prepared through silver service is endless. For appetisers, you may want to offer canapes, finger foods or sandwiches, for mains, pasta, meats, fish, salad and vegetables are commonly used followed by desserts that may include puddings, cakes, fresh fruit or ice creams. It is important to cater for any dietary requirements so check this beforehand.
Dress for the occasion
Whether you are employing people to serve your diners, or delivering the food yourself, be sure that you are presentable. For the full silver service effect, dress in a uniform of black and white, with bow ties and black polished shoes.
Make it Professional
To follow the formalities of your event, give your guests a set time to arrive, set specific meal times and have a seating plan. If you’re holding a large event and have speeches or entertainment, be sure that the timings for these are scheduled too. This will show your guests that the event has been well planned and organised. The Business Insider also has some useful dining etiquette rules that every professional should know.
This is a guest post. Links have been provided. Image via Google.
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