How To Host The Perfect Dinner Party

Australians were hard hit by the global financial crisis. It hit nearly every business sector hard, including cafes and restaurants. Government statistics suggests that industry contracted by about 3%. Yet the supermarkets and grocery stores of Australia enjoyed a 4% growth. It seems cooking and entertaining at home is becoming more popular again.

Throwing a dinner party at home is certainly cheaper than treating half a dozen friends and family to a meal out. However, it is a lot more work for the host! There are plenty of ways to have your meal and eat it without running around too much for your guests.

Cooking at home involves a little preparation and clever time management. You want to ensure the courses are all ready and waiting for you as you need them. The trick is to pick recipes that allow you to prepare the dishes ahead of your guest’s arrival. Try to have your desserts already dished up and waiting in the fridge. It will save you a lot of time away from the table.

To ensure you are present at the table throughout the meal, hire a waiter to manage the course changes and bring out the next plate. If you hire your waiter from a national company like www.hireawaiter.com.au you can be sure you’re getting vetted and experienced help.

The best thing about having some extra help is that you can concentrate on entertaining your guests. You can keep the conversation flowing as the waiter serves the wine. Dining at home offers a much more private and intimate experience. This is perfect for those special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. A busy restaurant can’t always deliver the atmosphere and privacy you are looking for.

A home dining experience provides far more control on the calorie content of the meals. This is perfect for those who are on special diets and watching their weight. You can also control the portion sizes better and not be tempted to overeat. Best of all, you can ensure each course is nutritious and fresh, with ingredients sourced from the places you approve of. You’re not tied to a specific menu but can choose the dishes you want to serve.

To create the perfect dinner party, clear out the dining room of clutter. Set the table with quality linen table cloths and candles. Place settings can be decorated with flowers. Prepare the cutlery, glasses and napkins. You might also like to cue some music to accompany your meal. If you are using a waiter, you might prefer not to place the wine bottles on the table, but rather have them served after everyone is seated.

Prepare dishes in advance, so they can be ready to serve at mealtime. Pick a meal that doesn’t require a lot of attention once it is cooked. Instead, it can be left on a low heat or hot plate. Starters that are served at room temperature or chilled are best when you want to maximise your time with your guests. Enjoy your meal.