Hosting a small party or gathering can be a fun and enjoyable experience, but it can also be stressful when it comes to deciding what food to serve. Buffet-style catering is a popular choice for small parties, as it allows guests to serve themselves and choose what they want to eat. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to decide what dishes to serve that will satisfy every palate. In this blog post, we’ll provide some small party buffet ideas that will leave your guests impressed and satisfied.
1) Barbeque Catering
Barbeque catering is an excellent option for hosting a small party in Melbourne. Not only does it offer delicious and flavorful food options, but it also provides a casual and relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for a laid-back event. Additionally, barbeque catering is easy to set up and manage, making it a hassle-free option for hosts who want to enjoy the party with their guests. Melbourne’s sunny weather also makes it an ideal location for outdoor barbeque parties.
If you’re considering hosting a small party in Melbourne, barbeque catering is a great choice that is sure to impress your guests. Check out ACC Catering’s BBQ catering options for mouth-watering and hassle-free options:
2) Finger Foods

Finger foods are a popular choice for small party catering, offering a variety of advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Pros:
- Versatility: Finger foods offer a wide range of options, from classic to creative dishes, suitable for different occasions and guest preferences.
- Easy to eat: Finger foods are served in small portions that are easy to eat, making them perfect for socializing and networking.
- Cost-effective: Finger foods are often a more affordable option compared to sit-down meals, and they can also help reduce food waste.
- Customizable: Finger foods can be easily adapted to cater to different dietary needs, such as gluten-free or vegan.
Cons:
- Limited seating: Finger foods are typically eaten standing, which can be challenging for some guests, especially elderly or disabled people.
- Messy: Some finger foods can be messy and may require additional napkins or plates to avoid spills and stains.
- Lack of variety: Depending on the menu, finger foods can lack variety and nutritional value if they only include fried or processed foods.
- Allergies and dietary restrictions: It can be difficult to cater to guests with allergies or dietary restrictions, as some finger foods may contain common allergens.
Some popular finger food options for small parties include mini quiches, chicken skewers, bruschetta, mini burgers, and savory tarts. If you’re looking for finger food catering for your next small party, check out ACC Catering’s menu for creative and delicious options:
3) Paella Catering

Paella catering is a unique and flavorful option for hosting a small party, but it comes with both pros and cons to consider.
Pros:
- Unique and flavorful: Paella catering offers a unique and flavorful dining experience that will impress your guests.
- Variety of options: Paella catering provides a range of options, including meat, seafood, and vegetarian options, to cater to all dietary requirements and preferences.
- Interactive: The paella cooking process is interactive and entertaining, providing a great experience for guests.
- Easy to manage: Paella catering is easy to manage, with minimal setup required, leaving you more time to enjoy your event.
Cons:
- Not a universal taste: Paella is not a universal taste, and some guests may not enjoy the flavors and spices used.
- Limited to outdoor venues: Paella catering is limited to outdoor venues only, as it requires open flame cooking, which may not be suitable for indoor events.
- Requires extra equipment: Paella catering requires specialized equipment, such as a paella pan and a gas burner, which may incur additional costs.
- Longer cooking time: Paella catering takes longer to cook than other catering options, which may lead to delays in serving time.
Overall, paella catering is a unique and flavorful option for hosting a small party in Melbourne, but it’s important to consider the limited taste appeal, outdoor venue requirements, equipment needs, and longer cooking times. If you’re considering paella catering for your next event, check out ACC Catering’s paella catering options for a hassle-free and delicious experience:
4) Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board is a perfect choice for a small party buffet. It’s a visually stunning spread that includes a variety of cured meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and crackers. Charcuterie boards are a great option for guests who want a lighter option or for those who want to try a little bit of everything.
Additionally, a charcuterie board can be customized to suit the theme or style of the event, making it a great addition to any type of small party, whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal affair. Overall, having a charcuterie board is a great way to add a touch of elegance and deliciousness to your small party, while keeping things simple and hassle-free.
5) Slider Station
A slider station is a fun and creative way to serve burgers at a small party buffet. Guests can choose from a variety of different sliders, including beef, chicken, and veggie options. Offer a selection of toppings, such as cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and sauces, so that guests can customize their sliders to their liking. A slider station is a great way to offer a classic dish in a fun and unique way.
6) Dessert Bar

No small party buffet is complete without a dessert bar. A dessert bar can include a variety of different desserts, such as cupcakes, brownies, cookies, and fruit. Offer a selection of different flavors and varieties to ensure that there is something for everyone. A dessert bar is a great way to end the evening on a sweet note.
Preparing a small party buffet can be easy and stress-free with the right food choices. Whether you choose a Barbeque, finger foods, a charcuterie board, a slider station, or a dessert bar, there are plenty of options available that will satisfy every palate. When it comes to small party catering, ACC Catering is a great option to consider. ACC offers a wide range of catering services, including cocktail party catering, that are sure to impress your guests.
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