GRAZING TIPS FOR SUMMER (Catering Column

Grazing Tips For Summer

Since the advent of social media like Pinterest and Instagram our fascination with taking photos of our food has boomed, and a clear favourite is the grazing table. Long gone are the days of putting out a couple of platters of cheese and antipasto; now every wedding or birthday must have a work of art that is worthy of photographic glory. While these grazing masterpieces look amazing, there are several things to consider especially when it comes to food safety and practicality. Setting up a grazing table will take time, and usually it will be set up at least an hour before anyone is likely to partake in its offerings. You will want to make sure you or the vendor are not using any items that should be served at fridge temperature like certain cheeses. If you are using a vendor, be sure to question them about their food safety training as they will be picking, packing, transporting, and handling all your food for your event. If setting up your table outside, you have the heat of the day and insects to think about. No one wants to eat sweaty cheese or meats. Consider concealing icepacks under vulnerable foods. If it is forecast to be a hot day you would be better off moving your table inside. Consider covering your table until ready to serve, and using small fans to deter flies and bugs. It’s also a good idea to have someone keep an eye on the table especially if there are young children around as we all know they like trying things, but if they don’t like it, they tend to put it back where they found it.

On the practical side of things consider whether your guests are going to want to eat from what is essentially a buffet table. Yes, you have plates and tongs for guests to use and it all looks so good, but we are still in pandemic times and some guests may not want to graze with other guests. Of concern is the cost, and amount of wastage. Look at your budget and compare having a grazing table where your guests must leave their conversations to go and get something to eat, to having similar foods offered by catering staff serving your guests where they are. So often people say they didn’t eat much because they were talking all night. You will also need to be considerate of your guests with food allergies. Ensure crosscontamination is not a high risk by adding a few smaller grazing boards to the table, separating foods for your guests. Whatever your next function is celebrating there is no question that the grazing table concept is a great idea to provide visual appeal and interest for your guests. By Clint Gurney of Cosmic Cocktails & Events Most user friendly POS screen

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Clients can order ahead at their table, via a tablet, or using the self-service kiosk. The newly released Idealpos 8 does it all.

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