Small bite-sized food items served during a cocktail reception or pre-dinner drinks period.
Canapés are typically served by waitstaff circulating through the room. They are designed to be eaten in one or two bites without cutlery. Standard quantities range from 3–5 pieces per person for a short pre-dinner reception to 8–12 pieces per person for a standalone cocktail event replacing a meal. Menus usually include a mix of cold and hot items, with vegetarian and dietary-friendly options.
BEO
Banquet Event Order — the definitive catering document listing every food, beverage, setup, and service detail for an event.
Cocktail Reception
A standing food and drink service, typically held before a formal dinner or as a standalone social event.
Plated Service
A formal meal service where each guest's dish is individually plated in the kitchen and served by waitstaff at the table.
Buffet
A self-service meal format where food is laid out on a table or station and guests serve themselves.
Family Style
A meal format where shared dishes are placed on the table and guests serve themselves and each other.
Beverage Package
A pre-arranged and pre-paid drinks offering included in the event, covering a set selection for a fixed duration or per-head cost.