Expert: Kay Cole - 5/29/2010

Question
Hi. I'm having a Grad Party with approximately 35-40 people. I can't be sure everyone will show up but I want to have enough food but not TOO much.
I plan to have CPK cater the party. They say the majority of their entrees and appetizers serve 6-8 people. But considering that most people take a little of everything, I'm still unsure how many plates to get for 35-40 people. I plan to get some appetizers, salads, and entrees but how many dishes in total should I get for that many people??
Please help.

Answer
Hi ~

The more variety of items - ie: 4 choices of entree versus 2 - the more you will need, in my opinion as you are quite right that guests will take or try a little of everything.

If you plan on 30/35 in attendance - taking into consideration a no-show factor that is inevitable - I would imagine that 4 entrees each of two types would be gracious plenty - with you not having to worry about who took what and how much of it.  If you go with three types of entrees, you will need to increase probably to at least 3 entrees of each of the three type.

I would not worry about the appetizers - and purchase just enough total for 30 people based on the caterer's recommendations...I personally do not think that it is a terrible thing for all of the hors d'oeuvres to be gone with an entree to follow.

Perhaps on salad, you could choose a basic garden type salad that might suit all and not have to go with a variety just offering one type...if you decide to go with two types, I would order enough of each for 25 people %26 that should cover you.

Has the caterer offered any suggestions on amounts for a buffet with options?

I hope these thoughts help. My best, K